My name is Adrienne, I’m a 41 year old mother of one. I’d like to share how massage therapy helps with managing my stress. Before I get into the details I’ll tell you a bit about me and how I was when I found the benefits of massage therapy for me. At the time I was about 30 years old, single and had been working as a mental health clinician. I had already been on an emotional healing journey and my work was taking a toll on me. I needed to improve my wellness routine and I’m glad I added massage as part of it.
A large part of my practice was working with survivors of trauma. I was keeping physically active with hiking and yoga and I had even begun to practice meditation but was still carrying a lot of tension in my body. Also, I had tight shoulders, would experience tingling down my right arm when working on the computer and would get lower back pain.
I received referrals to a massage therapist through the circle of friends I began making through yoga and Reiki. They all actually used massage as part of their own wellness routines. The discomfort was also impacting my sleep. Seems silly now, but at the time I suppose my body image issues, independent attitude and frugal habits stopped me from getting massage earlier. Being nude, asking for help and spending money on massage just seemed too much and even unnecessary.
While my lifestyle was helping me to manage my personal life, my work related stress and hours in front of a computer was showing up in my body. I finally followed through and made an appointment for a massage. The massage therapist really made me comfortable from the start. He encouraged me (yes I booked with a male) to undress to my comfort level. I kept all my undergarments on that day because it’s what was comfortable for me at the time. The ambience was relaxing from the lighting, décor, sound and even aroma. He was quite gentle in his demeanor which helped with my comfort level as well. It truly was magical, the tension I was holding seemed to melt away.
Since that first massage session I have become more comfortable with physical touch, more comfortable in my own body and see the value of investing in myself. I now view things like massage as an investment in myself. It’s really interesting how the power of touch can be so healing both physically and emotionally. I’m glad that I have it available to me as a way to find relief from those tight and painful stress points that can build in my body. My massage therapist has even taught me some stretches and techniques to work on some of the tightness at home on my own.
After becoming pregnant my body obviously went through a lot of changes and I had some tightness and straining muscles that I hadn’t experienced before. When you’re pregnant it’s important to find a person who has knowledge and experience working with pregnant bodies. Again, I found such relief in my hips and thighs from that gentle touch. After giving birth I had straining in my neck and shoulder from the nursing position.
Our bodies are constantly changing and adapting to new situations, even emotional stress can create tension in the body. It’s worth repeating that I am so grateful to have massage available to me. I feel like it makes me a better person to be around because I know when I’m in pain I have less patience for my child and other people.
Anyone hesitating to book a therapeutic massage really ought to go for it. Finding a reputable massage therapist will be the best thing you do for yourself. Life has so many stressors work, family, relationships just to name a few. It’s really common to have physical tension build up in the body. Soothing touch in a safe and relaxing environment could be the answer to your aches and pains. Additionally you might be like me and gain confidence and sense of self-worth which will improve your mood and self-esteem. Find a way to add massage into your wellness program because you’re worth it.
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