Touch for Tough and Tender Times

by May 7, 2020

 

 

Man In Despair

When economic times are tough, we’re tempted to trim our wellness habits and budget.

We’ve been taught to think of our bodies as machines that will automatically keep running whether or not we pay any attention to them.

The shocking fact that many have faced is that we can’t ignore the body’s needs for very long before it begins to show signs and symptoms of strain and illness.  Far from being a replicable machine, the body is a unique organism.

Studies have shown that anywhere from 70% to 90% of all doctor visits are due to stress-related ailments and diseases.  It’s only in recent years with the evidence of medical research that the connection between stress and illness has come into focus.

The immune system and proper functioning of all internal organs are controlled by the autonomic nervous system.  Under stress, its attention is on managing the danger coming from the outside.  The internal organs and immune system are held on standby until the danger and stress are  over.  The problem arises when the stresses are continuous, building and unresolved.  Our vital functions remain on standby.

As our immunity is weakened and our organs begin to malfunction, we develop all sorts of internal problems, from gut inflammation and digestive disorders to cancers to sterility and impotence.

Now, more than ever during the unpredictable times to come after Covid-19 it will serve us to pay attention to our body’s signals and take care of the early signs of stress.  The best ways to stay aware of and reduce the level of stress in your body are through skillful therapeutic touch and your own mindfulness.

Rocky road sign with darkening sky

When you feel your best, you are more able to deal successfully with the challenges that difficult times present. Greater health and clarity of mind that come from effective massage therapy help you face difficulties with grace and emotional reserves.

Pushing ahead

Our culture teaches us to ignore pain, to push through exhaustion and other body signals of illness  in the making.  We falsely learn there’s virtue in doing whatever it takes to keep going – even at the risk of our health. The goal, the project, the job, the purchase: these are all priorities.

But, surely, our first priority is to be well and energized.  Otherwise, all the rest of the stuff doesn’t really matter, does it?

Specific, intelligent massage:

  • Improves sleep
  • Boosts the immune system to ward off illness
  • Improves energy levels and reduces fatigue
  • Stops headaches & migraines
  • Improves concentration and decision-making
  • Removes pain
  • Improves joint health and muscle flexibility
  • Reduces anxiety and the flow of stress hormones
  • Supports healing
  • Alleviates chronic conditions that slow you down.

In our high-tech world of current uncertainty we need mindful massage and touch therapies more than ever, to remind us of our own power to direct our lives with compassionate humanity.

Brenda has been a full-time massage and bodywork practitioner since 1979, focusing on wholistic mind-body healing. She owns A Touch of Wellness in Largo, Florida

 

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