WW-Massage and Health

Massages are often thought of as a luxury. You get the chance to escape from the chaos of your everyday life and capture a moment of relaxation. But what many may not realize is that massage therapy not only provides an escape, but a wealth of health benefits. As I continue on my educational journey, I am soaking in vast amounts of knowledge to empower people to manage stress and gain vitality and health naturally.

I have to be honest, I am guilty of categorizing massages as a “treat” or a luxury item. But after studying the aromatherapy aspect of massage therapy and how it relates to the systems of the body, I am setting aside funds to be able to embrace the heath benefits of massage therapy.  If we look back in history, we will see that in the 1900s, Marguerite Maury pioneered the dermal application of essential oils and focused on the importance of taking a holistic approach to health. She was the first to draw attention to the enhancing effects of essential oils on the already beneficial affects of massage therapy.

So yesterday, I cashed in a free 1-hour massage from a dear friend who blessed me with this gift. I brought in my own Young Living essential oils and V6 massage oil to enhance the benefits of my massage session. My choice of essential oils included a blend of Peppermint, Eucalyptus Radiata, and Lavender. Why?

• Peppermint
  • Cooling sensation on the skin
  • Penetrates deep into the muscles and joints to help release tension and support the muscular skeletal system
  • Energizes and stimulates the body
• Eucalyptus Radiata:
  • Cleansing and soothing properties
  • Helps open up the lungs and encourages deep expansive breathing to relieve stress
  • Helps soothe inflammation in the body
• Lavender
  • Soothing to the mind and body
  • Helps soothe inflammation and tension in the body
  • Encourages relaxation and supports the body in recovering from metal fatigue.

During the massage, I realized just how much tension I was carrying in my neck and shoulders, arms, legs, and areas I didn’t even know I could carry stress! That is why I label stress as “The Silent Killer” because it eats away at us without us even realizing it. As the therapist massaged the essential oils into problem areas of my body, I could feel the release of the tension deep in my muscles. Why is massage therapy with essential oils so beneficial? According to Eileen Cahalane from Alive Magazine,

Massage facilitates circulation because the pressure created by the massage technique actually moves blood through the congested areas. The release of this same pressure causes new blood to flow in. The squeezing and pulling also flushes lactic acid from the muscles and improves the circulation of the lymph fluid which carries metabolic waste away from muscles and internal organs, resulting in lower blood pressure and improved body function.

So do away with the idea that massages are only for luxury, a “treat” or even therapy after an injury. When we reduce the stress in our bodies, we are able to bring our body back to balance so that our systems can function properly therefore avoiding the risk of developing chronic diseases. You will notice a difference in your emotional state, your energy, your flexibility and your overall health.

Prioritize your health. 

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