How often should I get a massage?
How often should I get a massage?
This is a very common question I get from my clients. Firstly, it depends on the reason why individuals come to see me:
- For Relaxation and coping with the stress of everyday life?
- For Health Benefits?
- Health related issues or maybe perhaps physical aches and pains?
Relaxation & Stress Relief
Relaxation & Stress Relief
One of the very best reasons to seek massage is relaxation. A relaxed body equals a relaxed mind. Massage helps to increase blood circulation and improve flexibility of the joints, therefore regular treatments will prevent pain, muscle tension and stress points from accumulating. Too often we wait until the problem occurs before seeking assistance and prevention is always better than cure. Massage is ideal for this and I recommend at least once per month or as often as you wish.
For periods where we have more stress and muscle tension than normal, it’s is especially important to practice good self-care. When we ‘don’t have time for a massage’ it’s usually when we need one the most. Therefore, try to make yourself a priority even during stressful times; your health is worth it.
Being in a high- stress job, staying in a certain position for a long time (particularly in front of a PC for example), we are likely to develop tight or ‘knotted muscles that will frequently occur in our shoulders, arms and back. Those increased tensions prevent movement and can cause a great deal of discomfort and pain. Hence why regular massage is important, helping to keep you loose and prevent the accumulation of stiffness and pain.
High stress levels for a prolonged time period can also increase the risk of heart disease, mental health problems and other conditions. However, the good news is- massage can help you. Having one every 2-4 weeks will decrease stress related tension.
Chronic Health Conditions
Chronic Health Conditions
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An important reason for a regular massage is the management of ongoing health issues such as back pain, joint pain, fatigue symptoms, insomnia, depression, digestive problems and respiratory issues. These can all be eased with regular massage and relief from pain can usually be achieved by 2-4 massage sessions per month.
Sport Recovery
Sport Recovery
If you love sport or just like to stay healthy and in shape, massage will certainly assist with your performance and importantly, recovery. Many athletes receive massage because it enhances their results, prevents injury and speeds up their muscle recovery. Competitive sports can put a lot of stress on muscles and research indicates that massage reduces inflammation and stimulates the growth of new mitochondria (energy -producing units in the cells) after strenuous exercise. Therefore, massage can not only relieve pain but build muscle tone and help with recovery. For these, I would recommend massage up to three times a week or at least three times a month.