Is Massage The Key To Boosting Your Wellness and Mood?

We all know that massage feels good, but did you know that it can also have amazing benefits for your mental and physical health? Gemma Meek spoke to Alanna, a massage therapist from Intercity Massage, to find out more about how massage can help you cope with stress, anxiety, pain and discomfort. She shared with us her personal experience and her professional insights so you can learn more and reap the benefits of massage.

Gemma: Can you tell us what inspired you to become a massage therapist?

Alanna: I decided to become a massage therapist at a very young age. I was reading through my big cousin’s college prospectus, and I liked the sound of the course. And my aunty agreed I would be good at it as even then…I liked a good chat. I take that as I was confident to speak to anyone and could strike up conversation easily!

I wanted to help people feel better in their bodies and minds. I have always been interested in holistic health and wellness, and I believe that massage is a powerful tool to achieve that. I love seeing the transformation that happens in my clients after a massage session. They look more relaxed, happy and healthy.

Gemma: What are some of the benefits of massage for our mental health?

Alanna: Massage can have a positive impact on our mental health in many ways. First of all, massage increases the production of dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin, which are the hormones that help us cope with stress and anxiety. They are also known as the ‘happy hormones’, because they promote positive feelings and emotions. They help us feel happier, calmer and relaxed.

Secondly, massage can also reduce the levels of cortisol, which is the hormone that triggers the fight-or-flight response in our body. Cortisol can cause inflammation, muscle tension, headaches, insomnia and other symptoms that affect our mood and well-being. By lowering cortisol, massage can help us feel more balanced and peaceful.

Thirdly, massage can also provide a sense of connection and care, which is essential for our mental health. When we receive a massage, we feel nurtured and supported by another human being. We feel that we are not alone, and that someone cares about us. This can boost our self-esteem and confidence, as well as our social skills.

Gemma: How about the benefits of massage for our physical health?

Alanna: Massage can also improve our physical health in many ways. One of the main benefits of massage is that it can relieve pain and discomfort in our muscles and soft tissues. Many people suffer from chronic pain due to injuries, overuse, poor posture or emotional stress. Massage can help by kneading, stretching, manipulating and stroking the affected areas, to release any stress and tension that has built up in the muscle.

Massage can also improve our blood circulation, which means that more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to our cells and tissues. This can enhance our immune system, speed up healing, detoxify our body and improve our skin tone.

Massage can also increase our range of motion and flexibility, which can prevent injuries and improve our posture. Massage can also stimulate our lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining excess fluid and waste from our body. This can reduce swelling, inflammation and cellulite.

Another benefit of massage is that it can improve both your mental and physical health at the end of your treatment. You will feel more relaxed, happy and healthy after a massage session. It has been said that one 60 minute full body massage is the equivalent to 8 hours sleep on the body. That’s how rejuvenating it can be!

Gemma: You mentioned that you often hear your clients say “I need to do this more often” at the end of a session. Why do you think people don’t get massages more often?

Alanna: I think there are many reasons why people don’t get massages more often. Some of them are:

Lack of time: People have busy schedules and they don’t prioritize their self-care. They think they don’t have enough time to get a massage or they feel guilty for taking time off.

Lack of money: People think that massage is too expensive or a luxury that they can’t afford. They don’t see it as an investment in their health and well-being.

Lack of awareness: People don’t know how beneficial massage can be for their mental and physical health. They don’t know what type of massage they need or how to find a good massage therapist.

Fear or discomfort: People may have some fears or discomforts about getting a massage. They may be afraid of being touched by a stranger or exposing their body. They may be worried about pain or pressure or hygiene.

Gemma: How do you address these barriers and encourage people to get massages more often?

Alanna: I try to educate my clients about the benefits of massage and how it can improve their quality of life. I also try to make them feel comfortable and safe with me. I listen to their needs and preferences, and I adjust my pressure and technique accordingly. I also offer them some tips on how to make time and money for massage.

For example:

Time: I suggest them to schedule their massage appointments in advance and treat them as important as any other appointment. I also remind them that they can choose the duration of their massage, from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on their availability and budget.

Money: I offer them fair prices for my services, and I also provide them with some discounts or packages if they plan to get regular massages. I also explain to them that massage can save them money in the long run, by preventing or reducing health problems that may require more expensive treatments or medications.

Awareness: I inform them about the different types of massage that I offer and how they can help them with their specific issues or goals. I also show them some testimonials from my previous clients who have experienced positive results from massage.

Fear or discomfort: I reassure them that massage is a safe and professional service, and that I respect their privacy and boundaries. I also tell them that they can communicate with me at any time during the massage, and let me know if they want me to change anything.

Gemma: What do you enjoy most about your job as a massage therapist?

Alanna: What I enjoy most about my job is how much I actually help people. On a physical and emotional basis. I absolutely love working mobile and treating people in their own homes. As they are already relaxed and feel comfortable.

Gemma: How often do you recommend people to get a massage?

Alanna: I recommend people to get a massage differently based on their individual needs and circumstances. I always however give an honest opinion on what I find during their treatment. For example, someone with severe tension and pain. I would recommend a treatment in a fortnight at least. Fomeone who just needs it for everyday stresses but nothing major, I would recommend monthly.

You can book a massage with Alanna’s team through their website intercitymt.com or by calling 07575 619 148. Prices start from £58.

Intercity Massage also offers different Spa Experiences which deliver different levels of luxury and comfort. All of the massages are completely tailored so you receive the treatment you require and want.

Intercity Massage currently operates throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians. From the 1st of July they will expand into Dundee and Fife, with Glasgow soon to follow.