The Magic Of Massages
Illawarra Mercury
Wednesday July 21, 2004
USED to be of the opinion that having a body massage was something to enjoy only on holidays or as a very rare treat. But as I continually delve into the powers of wellbeing, I am now convinced that having a regular massage is vital to overall wellness.
Think of it this way: a massage is to the human body what a tune-up is to a car. It provides a physical boost to the weary, sore and stressed. We don't hesitate to validate the cost for our car, so maybe it is time to prioritise the most important machine of all - our body.If you do a lot of physical work, sit at a computer all day long, work out at the gym or if you suffer from diabetes, you would definitely benefit from regular massages.Benefits include:? Helps stretch and loosen muscles? Improves blood flow and the movement of lymph throughout the body? Assists the removal of metabolic wastes resulting from exercise or inactivity? Increases the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissue? Stimulates the release of endorphins - the body's natural painkiller - into the brain and nervous system? Encourages relaxation and reduces mental stress? Enhances your capacity for calm thinking and creativity. Be aware that massages can aggravate some ailments such as phlebitis (inflammation of the walls of veins), infectious diseases, certain forms of cancer, cardiac problems, certain skin conditions or any inflamed or infected tissues. If in doubt consult your doctor. Having a healthy diet, a good chiropractor and masseuse are the important ingredients to having an outstanding quality of life.Massage therapy also satisfies the need for caring and the nurturing touch, can create a feeling of wellbeing and reduce anxiety levels. So if you are feeling tense, tight and teary, my suggestion is to find yourself a good masseuse and enjoy!Annette's cookbooks - Symply Too Good to Be True 1, 2 and 3 ($11.95) - and CDMenu Planner are sold in all good newsagencies. Or visit her web site at www.symplytoogood.com.auYou can hear Annette on the radio every Wednesday morning at 7.40am on 96.5 WaveFM.
© 2004 Illawarra Mercury
