Getting a massage can do wonders for your mind, body and spirit. Masseur JB Bailey shares how you can use massage therapy to lower and manage your stress level.
How did you get started?
In 1996 I was sitting in church one day trying to figure out my passion. The preacher was saying whatever it is that you like doing, you should find out how to make money doing it. I knew I liked touching people, not just physically, but touching their mind and heart and that led me to massage.
Why should someone get a massage?
Stress is that one element that is usually at the root of almost every illness. Some people like to exercise or run to release stress; however, getting a massage is another natural way to fight it.
One of the things I’ve noticed is that you use aromatherapy. Do massage and aromatherapy work hand in hand?
They sure do. When getting a massage aromatherapy [the use of plant substances] should always be used. Like humans, plants bleed. When you cut a plant you see a clear or milky substance drip from the stem. Well, that substance is full of oxygen. Using oils from natural plants like lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon, and rosemary is essential to a massage and not only gets your endorphins going but it gets oxygen into your body.
How often should one get a massage?
I recommend everyone get a massage at least once a month for mild stress management. For moderate stress, you should get one twice a month, and for severe stress, once a week, especially if you are dealing with a medical challenge. If you can’t get a massage, get in a hot tub of water as hot as you can stand it. Add a cup of Epson salt and sit in it for about 20 minutes and just relax, this will help lower your stress level tremendously.
