THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE YOU DIDN’T KNOW
Massage therapy is often associated with relaxation, but its benefits extend far beyond simple stress relief. To gain deeper insights into the lesser-known advantages of massage, we spoke with Anna Reed, an experienced spa manager with a background in physiotherapy. She shared her expertise on how massage affects the body, its impact on mental health, and why it’s a great idea to get a massage before flying.
General Background
Q: Can you share a little bit about your academic background in physiotherapy and how it has shaped your approach as a spa therapist?
A: I have always been fascinated by how the human body works. This curiosity led me to pursue a degree in physiotherapy at the Medical Academy in Gdansk, Poland. Although I had not previously had the opportunity to work directly in the medical field, the knowledge I gained helped me understand how massage and other services affect both the physical and mental aspects of well-being. I worked as a massage therapist for many years, and I believe that my in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology allowed me to provide more effective treatments.
Effects of Massage on the Body
Q: Which areas of the body benefit the most from massage, and why?
A: There isn’t a single area where massage provides the most benefit; rather, it affects various systems throughout the body. The advantages of massage are holistic, impacting the body as a whole. For instance, if I have tightness or tension in a specific group of muscles, I will feel immediate relief in that area after a massage. However, many other positive changes occur in the body that we may not notice. The circulation, lymphatic, and nervous systems are the primary systems that receive direct benefits from massage.
Q: What is the most underestimated/lesser-known area needing a massage with the current 21st-century lifestyle?
A: For me, the area of focus would be the hands and forearms. Most of us don’t realize how much tension we carry in this part of our bodies. We perform numerous tasks with our hands every day, ranging from small, precise movements to lifting heavy weights. Additionally, the time we spend using our phones means that the muscles in our hands are constantly at work.
Q: Could you explain how massage helps to relieve tension or pain in specific body parts, like the neck, back, or feet?
A: The way massage works is similar regardless of the body part being treated, whether it’s the leg, arm, or foot. When massage is applied, it stimulates the nerves and sensory receptors, sending signals via nerves and spinal cord to the brain. As a result, the parasympathetic nervous system becomes activated, which slows down various bodily functions. This includes reducing the heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing sweat production.
Health Benefits
Q: Beyond relaxation, what are some of the most significant health benefits of regular massage therapy?
A: Where do we start? There are so many benefits! I would say the most impactful, yet not commonly known, are:
- Improved sleep
- Enhanced immune system
- Increased levels of energy
Q: How does massage influence mental health, and can it complement treatments for anxiety?
A: Regular massage helps balance our happiness (endorphins) and stress (cortisol) hormone levels. Endorphins are released in the body in response to pain or stress, as well as during pleasurable activities like massage or exercise. They play a crucial role in managing pain by blocking the nerve cells responsible for transmitting pain signals. This process effectively reduces the sensation of pain, allowing your body to continue with daily tasks even when you are experiencing significant stress.
Q: Are there specific types of massage techniques that are particularly effective for boosting circulation or supporting the immune system?
A: All types of massage improve blood circulation. However, massages that involve applying heat, such as hot stone massage, or those that use firmer techniques (like sports massage) tend to produce more intense results.
Lymphatic massage is especially effective in boosting the immune system, as it helps eliminate toxins from the body and reduces inflammation. Additionally, Swedish massage, known for its relaxing properties, can also support the immune system indirectly.
Q: Can massage help with weight loss?
A: Massage alone will not lead to weight loss. However, some of its benefits can support and help with this process, such as:
- Boosts Circulation & Metabolism – Better blood flow helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to muscles and tissues.
- Reduces Stress & Cortisol Levels – High stress leads to weight gain, especially around the belly. Massage helps lower cortisol levels.
- Aids Muscle Recovery – Helps reduce soreness and improve flexibility, making it easier to stay active.
- Breaks Down Fat Deposits – Some techniques, like deep tissue or cellulite massage, claim to help break down fat cells, though results vary.
Massage Before Flying
Q: What are the unique benefits of getting a massage before a flight?
A: It’s a great idea to get a massage before your flight. Even a quick 15-minute session can significantly improve how you feel during and after your journey. Massage promotes better circulation, which can help prevent swelling and water retention. Additionally, it helps you relax and alleviates any stress related to travel. Since you’ll be sitting for an extended period on the flight, having a massage beforehand can also prevent stiffness and discomfort.
Q: Are there particular techniques or massages you’d recommend to travelers to reduce stress or avoid jet lag?
A: Any massage before a flight is better than none at all. The best types and techniques include Swedish massage combined with gentle stretches. This combination helps relax the body and increases mobility, preparing it for prolonged sitting.
Q: How can massage prepare the body for the physical strains of air travel, such as prolonged sitting or dehydration?
A: Getting a massage can help prepare your body for the stress associated with long flights. Other essentials include drinking plenty of water and wearing loose-fitting clothes made from natural, breathable materials. Consider your comfort during the flight and bring along your favorite travel accessories, such as a pillow, blanket, or eye mask. If you are prone to swelling, wearing compression socks can be beneficial.
Q: If we don’t have a spa around to look for the professional touch, is there any self-massage technique we can practice?
A: If a spa is not available, you can perform various self-massage techniques and stretches. You can use your hands for self-massage or utilize travel-friendly massage devices before your flight. Feel free to pack a massager in your carry-on and use it during the flight. While on the plane, try to move your body as much as possible. If you cannot stand up, practice muscle contractions to help boost blood flow.
Misconceptions and Advice
Q: Are there any common myths about massage therapy that you’d like to debunk?
A: One common myth about massage is that it must be painful to be effective. While some techniques may cause mild discomfort, a good massage does not need to be painful during or after the session. There are various types of massages available, so everyone can find one that meets their individual needs.
Another widespread belief is that all massages yield the same results. If that were true, we wouldn’t have such a wide variety of massage techniques. Each type serves a specific purpose, and while some may produce similar outcomes, it’s important to understand their unique benefits and choose the one that suits you best. This can even change from day to day.
Q: What advice would you give to someone new to massage therapy to maximize the benefits of their first session?
A: Be open-minded and select a trusted, recommended spa. Check online reviews or ask friends for personal recommendations. Ensure you allocate enough time for your session; rushing will prevent you from fully enjoying the experience. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before, during, and after your session. Communicate any discomfort to your therapist during the session, as their goal is to make you feel great, and your feedback is valuable.
Q: How can people incorporate simple massage techniques into their daily lives to improve their well-being?
A: The best way to incorporate massage into your daily life is by adding small, daily moments that benefit your well-being. Here are a few suggestions:
- Start your day with a 5-minute stretch.
- Use electronic massagers or manual massager tools, as visiting a spa is not usually feasible every day.
- Create a designated relaxing space and set aside time in your home for relaxation.
- Combine self-massage with other calming activities such as meditation, aromatherapy, or taking a bath.
Massage therapy is more than just a luxury; it’s a powerful tool for overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to relieve tension, support your immune system, or simply relax before a flight, regular massage can provide lasting benefits.
So next time you book a session, remember: the effects go far beyond relaxation. Your body, and mind, will thank you.
