health and wellness
Still Holding Out on Getting a Massage?
Elements Massage debunks massage myths that scare clients the most.
Highlands Ranch, CO, October 31, 2016 (Newswire.com) –It’s shocking that more Americans are not taking advantage of the preventative and healing benefits of massage because people have fears and misconceptions about massage.
Massage is a drug-free, non-invasive, humanistic approach to wellness, based on the body’s natural ability to heal itself. It may also be of help in treating high blood pressure, lower back pain, post-surgical care, arthritis and depression. But even when there is not a specific health issue, massage can have other benefits, including:
Exposure is game changer for many people, especially for first-time clients. There is a power differential between a therapist and client. People feel vulnerable when they take off their clothes. It’s important for people to know that there are proper draping techniques that therapists are trained in, and that the amount of clothing a person wears during a massage is optional. Eric Stephenson, Director of Education, iMassage.com
- Increased circulation
- Stimulation of the lymph system, the body’s natural defense against toxins
- Release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller
- Improved range of motion and decreased discomfort in back muscles
- Relaxation of injured and overused muscles
- Reduced muscle spasms and cramping
- Increased joint flexibility
- Aid in recovering from strenuous workouts
- Reduced post-operative adhesions and edema, as well as reduced scar tissue
Yet in 2015, a survey conducted by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) found only 19 percent of women and 16 percent of men reported having a massage in the past 12 months. Now that’s a frightening statistic!
Eric Stephenson is the director of education at iMassage.com, and has been a consultant for Elements Massage™ (Elements) since 2009. He says there are many misconceptions about massage therapy people need to be educated about. Topping the list, you have to get naked.
#1 Exposure
“Exposure is game changer for many people, especially for first-time clients,” says Stephenson. “There is a power differential between a therapist and client. People feel vulnerable when they take off their clothes. It’s important for people to know that there are proper draping techniques that therapists are trained in, and that the amount of clothing a person wears during a massage is optional. They can be fully clothed if they prefer. This is totally up to the client.”
Clients who have concerns should ask the massage studio or spa about its draping policy and what to expect during a massage to ensure their modesty is protected at all times.
#2 Body Image Issues
Many people avoid massage because they are uncomfortable with how they look. They think they are too heavy, too thin, they forgot to shave their legs, or have been traumatized by a past experience that makes touch by others stressful and difficult. A good massage therapist is never judgmental and may very well have a team of local specialists to whom they can refer troubled clients.
#3 It’s Too Expensive
Cost is subjective for most people. If massage is important, it can be as simple as a trade-off, substituting a massage for two or three meals out during the month. Stephenson also says franchise organizations like Elements have brought the cost of massage down and carved out a niche for people who are cost-sensitive. Membership programs and incentives can bring costs down even further.
#4 Massage Hurts
Massage therapists typically offer a variety of pressures and types of massage. Swedish massage for example, is typically more relaxing, whereas deep tissue and sports massage might be more oriented to helping cope with injuries and sore muscles. Massage clients should be able to ask for what they want in any session.
For example, Element’s therapists are taught to ask clients about the amount of pressure to apply within the first five minutes of a massage. Clients who believe in the old adage, “no pain, no gain” can ask for deep pressure, or those who wish for a relaxing massage are encouraged to state their preferences and give their massage[CS1] therapist direction throughout the session. If a therapist is not receptive, it might be wise to seek a different therapist. .
#5 I Need to go to a Therapist Often to Get Any Results
While it’s true that therapists may recommend more frequent massages for certain conditions, such as back pain or Plantar Fasciitis, the goal is to leverage massage therapy for healing, so that clients can achieve a maintenance level where fewer massages are necessary.
#6 Gender Bias
The ratio of women to men receiving massages used to be about 80:20, but not anymore. Men have become more savvy about the health benefits and they have more location options. The franchise model has helped in this area as well. Men no longer have to go to female-dominated health and beauty spas for a massage. There are also more male massage therapists in the workforce, so individuals who feel more comfortable seeing massage therapists of the same sex can do so.
#7 Drink Lots of Water
There was a time when it was believed drinking water before and after a massage would eliminate toxins from the body. This has been debunked. Many therapists still offer water to clients, but only for hydration. Everything in moderation is typically better for your overall health and well-being.
#8 Prenatal Massage is Dangerous
While it was believed that pregnant women should not get a massage, particularly in the first trimester, this belief most likely came about because more miscarriages occur during this time and many massage studio owners wanted to avoid this offering for liability reasons. Now, therapists are being trained and certified in prenatal massage and the risks are minimal.
A Simple Truth about Massage Therapy
As society embraces preventative care as a way to allay the need for medical treatment, the use of massage therapy as part of a wellness program continues to grow. It is a way of treating pain without medication. It can relieve anxiety and stress, and may lessen the risk of stress-causing diseases. As research continues to uncover the medical benefits of massage, it is important to note that its therapeutic advantages also come with some pleasant side effects.
“Massage is great way to come back to the soothing benefits of touch,” adds Stephenson. “Babies cannot survive without touch, so why do we deprive ourselves as adults?”
Source: Elements Massage
5 strategies to combat stressful triggers
(Family Features) Stress, the physical or mental response to external causes like overwhelming work assignments or difficult life moments, can add unnecessary pressure to your day to day. While everyone feels stress from time to time, when left untreated or unrecognized, it can begin to wreak havoc in the form of anxiety.
In honor of National Stress Awareness Month, consider these strategies to combat stress from the National Institutes of Mental Health.
Learn Your Triggers
Different events and situations cause stress for different people. Knowing what triggers your stress to kick in – mounds of office paperwork, important financial decisions or hectic mornings, for example – can help you plan and prepare for stress-inducing moments.
Exercise and Eat Right
Maintaining physical health can be beneficial for mental health, too. Find time to do exercises you enjoy like walking, jogging, yoga or playing a sport. Identifying activities that bring you joy can make it easier to fit 30-60-minute workouts into your schedule without adding even more stress. Complement your workout routine with nutritional meals that help you stay on track with your fitness goals.
Practice Relaxation
Whether you find inner peace through journaling, breathing exercises, reading or some other form of slowing down, find what works for you and prioritize fitting it into your daily schedule. Relaxing activities help you slow down the pace of life, providing a chance to reset by doing something you enjoy.
Get Enough Sleep
A lack of quality sleep can add to stress. Creating a bedtime routine can increase your sleep habits and help you achieve the expert-recommended 7-9 hours per night. Put away electronics, which can interfere with your ability to calm your mind, and find an activity that puts you at ease like reading a book or listening to relaxing music. Ensure your bedroom is optimized for comfort by making it cool, dark and quiet.
Create a Network of Support
Everyone experiences stress. Reach out to family members and close friends you can lean on in stressful and frustrating moments. Share your feelings and encourage others to do the same, which can increase trust and help everyone in your circle cope in a positive way.
Find more ways to combat stress and care for your mental health at eLivingtoday.com.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com
(Family Features) For those with asthma, understanding what can trigger symptoms is a part of getting the condition under control. Some of the same things that cause allergies can worsen symptoms, but not every allergen is a trigger for everyone with asthma. The places where you live, learn, work and play can expose you to common asthma triggers like pet dander, dust mites, pests like rodents and cockroaches, mold, cigarette smoke, pollen, air pollution and more. Managing triggers is just one part of controlling asthma, however. Work with your health care provider to make an asthma action plan and keep track of your symptoms and where you are when they occur. Learn more at nhlbi.nih.gov/BreatheBetter.
Food and Beverage
The 10 Best Healthiest Seafood Options: Nutrient-Rich and Sustainable Choices
“From sardines to salmon, discover the top 10 healthiest and sustainable seafood options for a nutrient-rich diet. 🐟🌱 #Seafood”
Seafood is a treasure trove of essential nutrients and beneficial compounds that can significantly contribute to a healthy diet. From the omega-3 fatty acids that promote heart health to the abundance of vitamins and minerals, incorporating seafood into your meals can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. In this blog post, we will delve into the ten best healthiest seafood options, considering their nutritional content, sustainability, and potential contaminants.
- Sardines:
These small fish are incredibly nutritious, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and calcium. Sardines are also low in contaminants and are considered one of the most sustainable seafood options available. - Salmon:
Salmon is well-known for its impressive omega-3 content. It also provides high-quality protein, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium. Opt for wild-caught Alaskan salmon for the best nutritional benefits and sustainability. - Oysters:
Oysters are a true nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins B12, D, and zinc. They are a sustainable choice and an excellent source of lean protein. Including oysters in your diet not only benefits your health but also supports local marine ecosystems due to their ability to filter water. - Mackerel:
Mackerel is another fish that boasts high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, along with vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium. This flavorful fish is considered a sustainable choice and offers numerous health benefits. - Rainbow Trout:
Rainbow trout is a deliciously mild-flavored fish that is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin B12, and iron. It is a sustainable choice, particularly when sourced from responsible fish farms. - Clams:
Clams are an excellent source of protein, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium. They are sustainable, low in contaminants, and make a versatile addition to dishes like pasta, chowders, and stir-fries. - Herring:
Herring is an oily fish that delivers a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. It is an eco-friendly choice and can be enjoyed smoked, pickled, or grilled. - Cod:
Cod is a lean white fish that provides protein, vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. It is known for its mild flavor and versatility in cooking methods. - Shrimp:
Shrimp is low in calories and rich in protein, vitamin D, and selenium. Choose sustainably sourced shrimp to minimize environmental impact and ensure a healthier choice. - Anchovies:
Anchovies may be small in size, but they are big in nutritional value. These tiny fish deliver omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamins D and E. They are also a sustainable choice when sourced responsibly.
When it comes to the healthiest seafood options, there is an abundance of choices that offer an array of essential nutrients while also being environmentally responsible. Sardines, salmon, oysters, mackerel, rainbow trout, clams, herring, cod, shrimp, and anchovies are all fantastic choices to boost your overall health while supporting sustainable fishing practices. Incorporate these nutrient powerhouses into your diet and savor the benefits they provide for your well-being and the planet.
What are the Risks of Eating Seafood?
Although seafood is a nutritious option to fulfill dietary nutrient gaps, there are some environmental and health concerns related to its consumption.
Seafood may contain toxins, viruses, parasites, and bacteria that can be harmful if consumed. To avoid getting sick, it is essential to cook fish and shellfish thoroughly. As per the USDA guidelines, most seafood should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Contaminants, including Mercury and Others
Overconsumption of certain seafood varieties can have negative health effects due to the presence of contaminants. For instance, specific fish species contain high levels of mercury, a heavy metal that can be easily absorbed by the body. Mercury accumulation is more common in larger fish, as they consume smaller fish that have ingested mercury-rich plankton. Consequently, larger and older fish are typically the most mercury-contaminated.
Regularly consuming foods high in mercury can result in mercury accumulation in the body, leading to health problems like high blood pressure, heart attack, and developmental delay in offspring. Mercury is toxic and can have detrimental effects on the body.
Mercury can have a greater impact on certain groups, such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children, who are more susceptible to its effects.
To reduce the amount of mercury in your diet, avoid consuming seafood like shark, certain types of tuna, swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel as they have high mercury levels. Instead, opt for low-mercury options such as trout, cod, oysters, clams, herring, salmon, and sardines.
Recommendations for Incorporating Seafood into Your Eating Plan
Eating seafood can boost the quality of your diet and support and protect your health. However, it’s important to consider the nutrition and environmental impact of seafood when narrowing down options to add to your diet.
Adding seafood to your diet can boost its nutritional quality and promote your overall health. However, it is essential to consider the nutritional composition and environmental impact of various seafood options before including them in your meals.
Read the article in Health titled Healthiest Seafood Options, Ranked for further insight into the topic. https://www.health.com/healthiest-seafood-8630471
https://stmdailynews.com/category/food-and-beverage/
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