One thing is for sure: you can’t take the mom out of mom! And, being a mom is no easy task. Apart from the needs of children, many mothers take on other responsibilities such as a full-time job (or two). Sometimes, the pressure of motherhood can seem unbearable – regardless of the age of mom and her kids.
Most moms are overworked and underappreciated. How often does your mom take time to do something for herself? Moms with young children often do not even get 15 minutes alone in the bathroom, much less 60 to 90 minutes to focus on her health and a bit of relaxation. And, moms who no longer have kids at home are still busy working and ensuring their adult children and grandchildren have everything they need.
That’s why it is important to help mom take time for herself – for her health, her mental well–being, her uninterrupted moment of relaxation. And a 90-minute massage will make her feel appreciated! If one massage is good, a monthly massage has enormous synergistic benefits. Here are a few ways massage therapy can be beneficial to moms:
“Me” time makes mom happy: Moms are constantly pulled in all directions and are focused on everyone else, which means little or no “me” time. If given some time to focus on themselves alone in a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, most moms would be a lot more patient, effective and happy.
Boosts energy: Massage can actually increase energy and a sense of revitalization. A good massage can relieve energy-sapping tension and boost energy levels, as well as promote a good night’s sleep.
Better mood: We know the saying, “if mom’s not happy, no one is happy.” Because massage helps to relieve stress and rejuvenate the mind and body, massage can turn a blue mood into a happy mode.
Relieves stress: Clinical studies have shown that a single 60- or (better yet) 90-minute session can significantly lower heart rate and cortisol and insulin levels, all of which help reduce stress.
Encourages relaxation: Pent-up levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol can lead to weight gain, sleeplessness and headaches. Massage has been shown to decrease cortisol in the body, allowing the body to enter a relaxing rest-and-recovery mode. Massage also triggers a host of brain chemistry responses that can result in lasting feelings of relaxation, lowered stress and improved mood.
Improves posture: Many moms’ posture suffers from carrying their children and groceries and sports gear. Massage can help posture by relaxing and loosening muscles made sore by bad posture, allowing the body to position itself in its natural-and-pain-free-posture.
Lowers blood pressure: Long-term studies have shown that a regular massage program can decrease diastolic and systolic blood pressure. Low blood pressure can contribute to lowering the odds of having a heart attack, kidney failure or a stroke.
Improves flexibility: By working on muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments and joints, regular massage can improve flexibility and range of motion, keeping joints more fluid and making them less injury prone. More flexibility means less pain.
Forget the flowers! Give mom a gift of massage that says “we appreciate how much you do!”
Make sure the special mom in your life knows how much you appreciate everything she does by giving her some time for herself. Massage Envy Spa makes this easy! In addition to a massage (or two, three or more) for mom, get her three facials for just $150! QCBN
By Mark Love
Mark Love is the Franchisee of Massage Envy Spa Flagstaff, located at 1235 S. Plaza Way in the University Plaza Shopping Center next to Safeway. For more information on the benefits of massage and to schedule an appointment with a massage therapist, visit MassageEnvy.com or call 928-526-ENVY (3689) and follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/MEFlag. Schedule an appointment online – your time, your convenience, your massage.
