The Benefits of Winter Massage
After our fabulous spring and summer this year, we are now beginning to experience cooler autumn evenings and the days are becoming noticeably shorter. The leaves on the trees are starting to turn orange and many of us are dusting off our winter woollies ready for the inevitable colder temperatures. Whilst some people enjoy the cool of the latter part of the year, many of us dread the inevitable colds, sickness bugs and winter depression that can accompany the plunging mercury.
Having regular massage can be a great way of keeping us feeling happier and healthier during the colder autumn and winter months and can be very beneficial in helping us take a pro-active approach to our winter health.
Give Your Immune System A Boost
Cold, flu and sickness viruses become more prevalent in the wintertime and, with more time spent indoors in close proximity to other people, the risk of catching something is greatly increased. Having a strong immune system will help your body to fight off illness and massage can be a great, natural way of achieving this. Researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles found that people who received a 45 minute massage had an increased number of white blood cells. These white bloods cells play an important role in fighting disease and keeping the bugs at bay!
Keep Your Skin Hydrated
As the temperature drops, we crank up the heating to keep snug and warm. Unfortunately, central heating, coupled with low temperatures and windy days, dries out our skin and can leave it scaly and flaking. Massage has an exfoliating effect on the skin and the oils used will add moisture to parched skin. At the Body & Mind Therapy Centre we only use high grade, pure grapeseed oil as this contains high amounts of vitamin E and omega fatty acids which are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.
The harsh elements take their toll on our faces in particular so a good holistic facial will exfoliate, rejuvenate and rehydrate dry skin. Our gentle Botanicals Skincare range is certified organic by the Soil Association and will replenish moisture and nourish your skin, leaving it glowing and protected from the elements.
Improve Your Circulation
Good circulation is essential to good health. Every cell in the body depends on a plentiful supply of blood and lymph to deliver nutrients and remove waste and toxins. Massage helps to stimulate the circulatory system and promote lymphatic drainage as blood passes more rapidly through tissue being massaged. Poor circulation can lead to painful conditions, such as Reynaud’s, which worsen in cold weather often becoming very painful for sufferers. The benefits of massage can be further enhanced with the introduction of thermal stones which are heated up and used during the treatment to deliver warmth to the area being massaged and further increase muscle relaxation and blood flow.
Beat The Winter Blues
The dark, dreary winter days can have a marked effect on our mental health. Some people will notice a slight change in their sleep patterns or mood when the “winter blues” kicks in during the autumn. For others, however, the problem is more profound and for those that suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) it has a big impact on their daily lives. Having regular massage treatments can help with managing the symptoms of SAD. Through the power of touch, massage can increase serotonin and dopamine levels, reducing anxiety and depression. The use of specially blended essential oils in Aromatherapy massage can add a further dimension to the treatment of winter depression and help give you a much-needed lift.
Treat Your Aches & Pains
Muscles can become stiff and sore during cold spells and arthritic conditions can flare up and be particularly painful. Massage is often used to relieve common symptoms of arthritis: reducing pain and stiffness, easing anxiety, improving range of motion in joints, and promoting more restful sleep.
As with any massage, it is important to ensure that your therapist is fully qualified and is made aware of any medical conditions you may have. Here at The Body & Mind all our therapists are qualified and experienced and will make sure that you receive the appropriate massage for your needs. If you do have any questions regarding our treatments please do not hesitate to ask one of our friendly team. We are always happy to help!