It is the most wonderful time of the year, but among all the family and friend celebrations, there can be a rather large price tag attached! In fact, 6 of 10 adults suffer from stress and anxiety during and after the holiday season. As a result, muscle tension becomes more persistent.
Symptoms associated with holiday stress and anxiety are:
Physiological characteristics:
- Rigidity
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Upset stomach
Psychological characteristics:
- Irritability
- Negative thoughts
- Loss of perception and self control
- Some muscle tension can be found in static regions, such as the back, neck, shoulders and lumbar region
Benefits of massage therapy:
Massage stimulates blood circulation to improve the distribution of oxygen and nutrients to the body tissue. It also helps the lymphatic system eliminate waste products; such as lactic acid (acid the accumulates in the body when the carbohydrates are broken down to give us energy during the exercise). Manual therapy also stimulates the brain to produce endorphins (your own pain killers) and increases the vagus nerve activity. The vagus nerve is the 10th of that cranial nerves. It effects the secretion of the hormones that helps absorb food, regulates heart rate, as well as regulates breathing.
Massage is a great way to lower holiday stress and anxiety, as well as stay healthy this winter. In our Essential Market, we offer gift certificates for 1 hour massages and 15 minute targeted massages with Gloria in our Hackettstown office. Be sure to take care of yourself and get the most out of this season! Happy holidays!!!
