Maximizing the Benefits of Massage
Clients often ask what they can do between sessions to help maintain and build on the progress we make during their massage.
While there’s no “magic bullet” that applies to everyone, for most people, regular (daily) stretching is probably the single most important thing you can do to maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness and muscle tension … and the discomfort that often comes with it.
When it comes to stretching, the importance of frequency and consistency cannot be overstated: stretching for five minutes a day, every day, will almost certainly improve your flexibility; stretching for an hour once a week almost certainly won’t do anything for you.
So my advice is to start slow, with a brief routine you will be able to maintain even when you’re busy or on days when you’re not especially motivated:
Designate a specific time each day for stretching — five or ten minutes is ample to start.
Focus on one or two muscles or muscle groups that are particularly problematic.
Choose one or two stretches that address those specific muscles.
Do those stretches every day, no matter where you are or what else is going on.
Be patient and kind with yourself — learning to stretch takes practice, and you may feel a little awkward at first; but if you stick with it, in a very short time you’ll be stretching like a pro.
Don’t expect miracles — it will probably take a few weeks, possibly even a month or more, before you notice a difference, but if you keep at it, you will notice a difference.
There are, of course, hundreds of stretches to choose from, and it can be challenging to find the specific stretches that will be most beneficial for you.
If this is something you’re interested in, let me know at your next appointment. I’m happy to work with you to develop a personalized stretching routine that will be right for you.
I’m also happy to let you know that I’ve settled in to my beautiful new massage studio in Arcata (see photos below). It’s a much quieter, more convenient, more tranquil space. Many clients have noted that it’s far more suited to massage than my former location in Eureka. (It’s also ADA accessible and has plenty of free parking!)
Finally, I know it can be difficult to make time for self-care. Believe me, I know! But as I always say:
If you’re too busy to get a massage … you probably need a massage!
So if it’s been a while since your last massage, you can contact me by phone/text at 707.840.4626, or by email at daniel@mindfulnessbasedmassage.com, to schedule an appointment.
That’s it for now. Take good care, and stay in touch.
Peace…
-dz
P.S. As I’ve mentioned, I lead a free online guided meditation group twice a week:
Mondays — 8pm PT
Thursdays — 7am PT
Sessions run ~20-30 minutes, and focus on breath (anapana) and mindfulness meditation. If you’d like to participate, please submit the form linked below to indicate your interest and I’ll send you the Zoom link. No experience is needed, and you are welcome to participate whenever your schedule permits.
Meditation Interest Form
(http://www.mindfulnessbasedmassage.com/meditation)
Hope to see you there!