In today’s workaholic, stress-oriented society, it is far too easy for people to suddenly find themselves strung out on a whim. From the shaky economy to pressures at home, the average person carries far more weight on his mind and shoulders than is probably healthy. Of course, the problem with stress is that it produces a cycle from which most people wind up struggling to escape. Stress tends to start in the brain, sending signals to the body that the mind is in distress. The body then reacts by developing physical symptoms, which can manifest in a number of ways, from sore muscles to actual ailments. The physical effects of stress then work to take a toll on the body, leading to increased mental tension; and thus the cycle gets kicked into gear in all of its vicious glory.
One of the most nerve-racking issues about stress is the fact that the medical community is constantly preaching the importance of stress reduction. Rather than minimizing the mental strain, suggestions such as “try not to stress” usually end up serving the opposite purpose, thereby causing – you guessed it – even more stress. Since most people wholeheartedly agree that stress reduction is far more than a matter of snapping one’s fingers and bidding stress adieu, many overstressed individuals find themselves seeking outside help in order to achieve the goal of relative mental tranquility. This is where professional massage therapy comes into play. Dr. Ulysses Agpaoa is medical director at Hudson Laser Skin Care, a New Jersey-based medical spa, and he believes that massage therapy can play an important role in helping people recover from physical and emotional aches and pains. For this reason, his facility offers a number of massages designed to target a variety of pain origins.
On a physical level, a good massage help dilate blood vessels and pump added nutrients and energy sources into the body. The right massage techniques can improve circulation and help the body rid itself of toxins, thereby helping the recipient stay strong and healthy. While the physical benefits of massages make them a worthwhile investment, the mental benefits are just as important. A proper massage can help increase energy levels and enhance the recipient’s memory and mood. Massages have also been linked to an improvement in one’s ability to get a good night’s sleep, which can result in added alertness and mental dexterity. Most importantly, the right massage can really help a person alleviate, or at least manage stress, thereby breaking the damaging cycle and increasing one’s ability to stay physically healthy.
In fact, because massage therapy is gaining more and more credibility in the medical world, some insurance companies are beginning to cover the cost of massages as long as a medical diagnosis is associated with the procedure. Unfortunately, as far as the medical value of massage therapy is concerned, many players in the health insurance field still need a lot of convincing. However, Dr. Agpaoa always encourages his customers to appeal to their insurance companies – or beg their loved ones for medical spa gift certificates – before opting out of massage therapy.
A buildup of stress can truly take a toll on a person over time. Rather than suffer in silence, you can take steps to break the vicious cycle by scheduling a soothing massage at your local medical spa. Yes, you might have to pay a bit, but your mind and body will be sure to thank you profusely.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
