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Massage News - Articles of Interest

5 Skin Benefits From Massage That Might Shock You

6/11/2025

 
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The sun is out and it is warm! Now that summertime is here, I’m sure the thought of getting sunscreen (if you haven’t already) is in your mind. Taking care of your skin is very important, as it is the biggest organ of the body! It's constantly working to shield us from the environment, regulate temperature, and eliminate waste - so it deserves some love. But did you know that massages have a lot of benefits for the skin? Incorporating regular massages into your wellness routine could be the secret you’ve been searching for to achieve a radiant complexion. Let’s talk about it!
​1. Increases Circulation
Enjoy more moisturized, glowing skin thanks to massage. The pressure from a massage can stimulate the receptors and increase the temperature of muscle tissues. This allows for blood vessels to dilate and cause more blood flow. Not only does this increase the flow of oxygen, but it can reduce lines, wrinkles, and dark circles around the eyes. This increased circulation can also boost muscle thickness and heal scars.
2. Skin Detoxification
The summer heat brings sweat, dirt, and oil build-up! Personal hygiene is important with the warm weather, but sometimes it all doesn’t disappear. Getting a massage allows for build-up to escape out of pores. It gives a nice exfoliation of the skin, removing the dead skin cells that are lingering. The natural cleansing process and a massage go hand-in-hand! Below the skin’s surface, the lymphatic system is hard at work. Getting rid of the waste that goes into your skin will keep your face youthful, clean, with reduced puffiness.
3. Heals and Regenerates
Massages are not only healing to the mind, but to your skin too! When you get a massage, collagen production gets stimulated. Collagen is the main protein in the skin. So with increased collagen production, your skin can heal and regenerate faster and safer than with harsh chemicals. Plus, getting a massage promotes better sleep. When you don’t sleep well, your skin doesn’t repair itself. When you get a relaxing massage, you are setting yourself up for top-tier rejuvenation.
4. Removes Skin Impurities
Like stated above, with increased circulation and collagen, your skin can heal and regenerate faster. Reduced lines, wrinkles, dark circles, acne, and other skin imperfections can be reduced and removed. Reducing the muscle tension and pain by stimulating relaxation and healing in the body is another factor that massage can influence to reduce lines and wrinkles. ​
5. Tighten Skin After Weight Loss
This one may really surprise you. Getting a massage after losing weight can help tighten the elasticity of your skin by allowing nutrients to refresh the skin. With the dead skin cells getting removed, opening of the pores, your skin can breathe and regenerate. Massage can improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of sagging, and can contribute to a more lifted and sculpted look.
Most people know the typical benefits of a massage, like relaxation or better sleep quality, but did you know these skin massage benefits? There are countless ways that massage benefits you, in ways that you might not even see right away. From boosting circulation and aiding lymphatic drainage to reducing stress, massage offers a holistic approach to achieving a healthy and radiant complexion. So, the next time you book a massage, remember that you're not just treating your muscles – you're also giving your skin a much-deserved dose of nourishment and rejuvenation. It's a truly skin-deep approach to beauty and well-being.
Don’t let sunscreen be the only way you’re taking care of your skin this summer! Book a massage today. 

Spring Cleaning Ergonomics

5/29/2025

 
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It’s that time of year again - spring cleaning! For some it is a great time to refresh and start off the warm weather. For others, it is a time filled with anxiety and feeling overwhelmed. Whether you feel great or terrible about this time, it is important to treat your body with kindness and listen to these ergonomic tips!
Postures
There’s no surprise that posture plays a huge role in spring cleaning. Bending over, kneeling, reaching above your head, and lifting are just a few examples of the many different positions your body is going to be in when cleaning and organizing. 

When bending over and lifting, make sure to hinge at the hips and knees and keep your back straight. Especially when lifting, make sure that you are lifting with your knees and not your back. Also hold the item as close to your torso as possible, this allows for your back to not take the brunt of the work. Do not twist when bending as it can strain your back. 

If you’ve ever knelt for a long period of time, you know that it can get painful! It is not recommended to kneel for extended periods as it places pressure on the knee joints, blood circulation, and can cause muscle strain. If possible, use knee pads and change positions frequently. 

When reaching above your head, it can be dangerous for your shoulders. To reduce hazards, try to get as close to the object beforehand (by using a step stool or ladder) and try to not raise your arms higher than 90 degrees. Maintain a neutral spine and do not reach for/put up something that is heavier than you can casually lift.  
Pace 
It is easy to work ahead and try to get things done as quickly as possible, however, it is not easy on the body to do this. Take your time, if anything, this will make sure you don’t miss a speck of dust! Taking your time will ensure that you don’t miss your body’s cues of overworking or injury. 

Taking a few seconds to stretch your arms, legs, hands, neck, and back will make sure that they don’t tense up. Avoid doing too much at once, and not doing the same type of projects at the same time. Switching up activities gives your body a break. 
Tools
We all have particular favorites of cleaning tools, but are they the right ones for your body? Heavy vacuum cleaners and short brooms and mops are not ideal for your body, as you have to lean, push, and awkwardly move to cause potential strain on your body. 

To ensure proper body ergonomics, vacuums should be lightweight and have adjustable handles and attachments. Mops should also be lightweight. Dusters and scrub brushes should have extendable handles to avoid bending and reaching. Consider getting a dustpan with a handle so you don’t have to bend over. 

Don’t forget about skin health! A lot of chemicals that are used for spring cleaning are extremely damaging to the skin. Consider using more natural products, or at least wear gloves and long sleeves to avoid contact with those chemicals. 
Take Care of You
Spring cleaning, while refreshing, can be physically demanding. It's crucial to prioritize self-care to ensure your body stays fresh, too! After a long day of decluttering and scrubbing, treat yourself to a massage. This can help alleviate tension, reduce soreness, and promote relaxation. Consider it spring cleaning for the body! 
Ready to take on the cleaning and prep for summer? Contact us to book your massage today!

Stretching Techniques For Daily Ergonomics & Body Function

1/23/2025

 
A good stretch is a hug for your muscles! Don’t you just love a good stretch? Stretching and a therapeutic massage by a seasoned professional go hand-in-hand. It is important to recognize how they both improve your relationship with your body and its functions. 

There are so many benefits to stretching. Improving flexibility, reducing muscle soreness, increasing energy, and reducing risk of injury are just a few! It’s critical to keep those muscles loose and mobile for your body’s health.
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Whether you’re the type to run a marathon or lounge on the couch–stretching is crucial. It’s important to always stay relaxed, no matter the activity. Listen to your body, if you are feeling discomfort take a moment to readjust. Doing some of these exercises multiple times per day will not only improve your physical fitness, but your mental well being. Pushing yourself to do stretches is not going to do your body any good, it could just cause more pain and problems. So  always pay attention to what it is telling you. 

Here is a list of stretches that have been proven to increase mobility and ergonomics:

Neck
  • Stretch: Gently lean your head ear to shoulder, holding for 10 seconds. Keep your chin tucked.
  • Head Turn: Turn your head slowly to look over your shoulder, then turn your head to look over your other shoulder​
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Upper Body
  • Shoulder Rolls: Circle your shoulders forward 5 times, then backwards 5 times. 
  • Wrist and Elbow: Put your arms straight out and interlock your fingers, palms facing outwards. Hold for 10 seconds.
  • Upper Back: Interlace your fingers and raise your arms straight above your head. Then, lean side to side.
  • Back Arch: Perhaps the most popular stretch; put your hands on your lower back and gently arch for a few seconds.​​
  • Chest Stretch: Sitting or standing, put your arms behind you and interlock your fingers if possible. Gently pull up your arms until you feel a stretch in your chest. 
Lower Body
  • Hips: Perform a lunge, then lean forward. 
  • Seated Hip: In a seated position, cross your right angle over your left knee. Sitting straight, lean forward. You will feel a stretch in the glute and hip. Hold for half a minute, then alternate. To deepen the stretch, press down on your right knee.
  • Inner Thigh: While seated, have your legs in a wide stance. With a straight back, lean forward and put your elbows in between your thighs. Push your thighs out to enhance the stretch.  ​​
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  • Knee Squeeze: Stand, and lift leg towards your chest. Hold your knee or underneath your leg and squeeze.
  • Outstretch: While sitting, hold one or both legs straight out. Flex your foot forwards and backwards to stretch out your calf muscle. 
  • Foot Rotation: Extend your leg and roll your foot, clockwise and counterclockwise.
Eyes
  • Exercises: Have your head forward, and sit/stand straight. Look up, then down. Look left, then right. Repeat. 
​​
Remember to take care of yourself, your body deserves it! Implementing these stretches into your daily routine, along with getting a massage is the perfect way to promote healing and rejuvenate your muscles. Contact us today to get your personalized, professional massage! ​
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