Massage Just Because
What reason do you need to receive a massage? Pain relief? Stress management? Increase of mobility? To augment medical treatment? Could you simply have a massage just because? Often, we think our activities must serve a purpose or solve some sort of problem. We must earn a break, a rest, or an enjoyable activity. Who came up with this idea? The “No Pain No Gain” adage is a falsity. You can gain A LOT without pain – with pleasure even. There are benefits to taking an enjoyable break. Massage is one way to allow yourself that break.
The trouble with massage is that it is both good for you and enjoyable. It is easy to commit to activities that are healthful yet unpleasant. Something about sacrifice and discomfort allow us to feel free to dedicate time, money, and energy without remorse. Could this be why so many of us commit monthly finances to gym memberships or diet foods (yuck)? When it comes to the pleasures in life, we equate bliss with something that must be earned or that requires the feeling of guilt. Namely the “guilty pleasure.”
You can rest easily knowing that while enjoyable, the rest and enjoyment massage provides is beneficial. If you need a utilitarian reason for taking a massage break here are a few.
Increase concentration
By taking a break on a massage table, you allow your mind to rest. This rest can help you concentrate on a task later that day or the following morning. Allowing your body and mind to take a break can leave space for creativity to flow. Receiving a massage the morning or day before you have a project to work on can help you get the task done.
Bust the Busy Cycle
You don’t have to be busy to be valuable. In fact, taking time to be present can increase productivity later. Without the interruption of phone calls, texts, emails, and the need to get stuff done, you can enjoy the moment. Chronic busyness can lead to an increase in stress, overwhelm, anxiety, and depression. Massage gives you the opportunity to move from human doing to human be-ing. Thus, providing a physical, mental, and emotional recharge.
Enhance Awareness
Massage provides the time and space to be truly aware of your surroundings and of physical sensations. Often, we engage with life as if we are two parts: a mind and a body. Massage allows your mind and body to reconnect by engaging your senses: smell, sight, hearing, and touch. The calm and stillness of massage gives you the opportunity to become aware of the present moment. Attending to the present including your physical sensations is attending to life.
Personalized Attention
Massage is unique in that it allows you to receive personalized, undivided attention from another human for 30, 45, 60, or more minutes. This attention to your needs highlights the importance of your comfort and well-being. Few other interactions provide you with this opportunity.
You Matter
Don’t wait until you “need” a massage. Having massage regularly will help keep you active, rested, restored, mobile, and creative. Most of all, allowing yourself regular doses of something that is good for you AND feels great, reminds you that you are important. Enjoying life is important. You matter and your well-being is an asset. Don’t delay, if crave a massage, schedule it today!