Massage for the Health of It

Part One of the "Massage for the Health of It" Series

If you view massage as a special indulgence reserved for that well-deserved splurge on yourself, think again.

Massage has a number of health benefits that go far beyond the perception of luxury that probably prevents you from making it part of your usual wellness routine. The body, not unlike any other machine, is a complex instrument that demands care and maintenance.

If you wait until you are at death's door before you go to the doctor, you are robbing yourself of a healthy daily life. If you wait until you need a massage because of pain, you are imposing the same disservice on your overall health and wellness.

Take for instance the needs of your skin. As the largest organ in the body, it demands to be kept in superb condition. Did you know that the epidermis, or outer layer of the skin, acts as the body's major barrier against external health threats? Your skin is your first line of defense against bacteria, infection, and a host of other inhospitable environmental elements!

The health of the skin is dependent upon a number of factors being present; not the least of which is an active and energetic system of vascular circulation. Skin is a living, breathing, sloughing organ that is constantly in need of care and attention!

Think of your skin as a giant piece of fabric made up of tiny blood vessels. Raging through those vessels are all of the nutrients, elements, and toxins that will eventually feed or flee every cell of your body. By  introducing or improving circulation to areas of the skin that are rarely manipulated, you will improve the removal of toxins from your body and increase the introduction of nutrients and other healthy resources at the cellular level.

So I have to ask, what have you done for your skin today?

Taking a shower and applying moisturizer is no doubt already part of your daily healthcare routine; but what about going a step further? Do you exfoliate regularly? Do you vigorously rub your entire body to ensure maximum blood flow through the many layers of the skin?

A thirty minute Swedish massage will make your skin feel like a million bucks. This type of massage involves a light manipulation of the body and is ideal for maximizing circulation throughout the different layers comprising your skin. Pair a massage with a skin polishing treatment once a month and your skin will literally glow.

Re-think your view of massage and schedule it into your healthcare routine. A simple massage is not an indulgence, it is a primary need for skin care.

Mary Ellen Rose, Ph.D.
 PIECES for Life.com
Dr. Rose is a professional educator and consultant for corporate wellness analysis, design and strategic development.