Massages are wonderful for anybody, no matter who they are.

But for International Women's Day, I thought it would be fun to talk about my favorite form of self-care and how it can be great for ladies. Women are such an important part of families and the lives of people everywhere. Appreciate the women you love, and encourage self-care so that they can feel their "cup run over." Whether you are giving her a massage after the kids are asleep, or getting her in with a massage therapist, consider supporting your woman with massage! You help her relax, make her feel good, and it's a great way to connect after a long day.

Massage Increases The Levels of Brain Boosting Neuro-Transmitters In Your Body

Whether you are a stay at home mom, or a working lady kicking butt in your career, you deal with stress. Sometimes it can feel like you have the world's weight on your shoulders (literally). Massage lowers cortisol levels and increases the levels of neurotransmitters that make you feel good, for example, serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine. Whether you are going through a big change in your life, had a hard day, or even waiting to go into labor, having a boost in these neurotransmitters can make a difference!

PMS, Periods, Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum

Of course, massages will just feel good when you're going through these times. However, certain techniques and acupoints specifically help relieve ailments that happen during these periods. Massage helps balance hormones and makes you feel more grounded (how about a foot massage while you're on day 1–2 of your cycle, anyone?!) I love giving prenatal massages, not only are they balancing for the body (structurally and emotionally), but it brings a certain kind of support to a pregnant mama. This is also why postpartum massage is so amazing! The postpartum period is a special time in a person's life. How amazing it is to ease into the journey with massages addressing the aches and pains you now are experiencing as a new mom, and have someone hold space for you.

Pain and Tension in the Body

Being a mom, sister, friend, wife, person, isn't easy. You're bound to pick up some tension or pain along the way. Remember in an earlier paragraph, when I mentioned the weight on one's shoulders? Our bodies and minds are so inherently connected, we quite literally carry burdens and emotions in our physical bodies. There are many different ways one can release tension in their physical form, some options healthier than others. Getting a massage is a healthy way to release pain and tension in the body, while still maintaining your presence in life! So whether you're doing self-massage, getting a massage from a caring partner, or making an appointment with someone trained in bodywork, I hope you get to experience this wonderful form of self-care!

March 3rd, 2020

https://balancedbirthandbodywork.blogspot.com/2020/03/happy-international-womens-day-self.html