So how do I answer that question? It depends.
How often should I get a massage?
Bob Hope got a massage every day for 63 years and credited his longevity to massage. I think everyone would get a massage once a week in a perfect world. But I know that’s aspirational and not practical for everyone.
So how do I answer that question? It depends.
For pain and rehab
If you seek massage for pain relief from an injury or long-term issue or as part of a rehab plan after surgery, a shorter session a few times a week may be appropriate for a few weeks. We can move into twice monthly or monthly maintenance visits.
As part of a training regimen
Training for a marathon? Weekly or twice monthly massage can keep you feeling good as you increase your miles and speed and can help you recover after long runs. Regular massage helps prevent injuries as you train and help you notice changes or issues as they crop up.
For stress relief
Again, weekly massage is fantastic for helping to regulate sleep patterns, reduce the physical manifestations of stress in your body and help you maintain a more relaxed and calmer demeanor. For anxiety and stress relief, I suggest you get a massage as often as your schedule and budget allow. That means weekly, twice a month, or monthly massage for some clients. We have a few clients who come in once per quarter or twice a year.
For overall health maintenance
Massage is fantastic as preventive care for your mind and body. It can keep you from slowing down due to aches and pains that creep up on you. This is why massage therapists suggest regular massage. It keeps you better in tune with your body and helps to keep minor problems from developing into bigger ones.
A stressful day or repetitive motions can cause some muscles to tighten and rebel. It’s just a little anymore, but more stress and repetitive motions cause more muscle tightening. It can happen so gradually that you don’t become aware of the problem until you sleep wrong, stress your body to make everything spasm, or realize you can’t put your sweatshirt on without tweaking the pain.
Make a plan
Regardless of how often you decide to get a massage, it’s worthwhile to think through how massage helps you and what frequency works for your life.
If you don’t remember what it’s like to feel good, or you haven’t been getting a massage regularly, make an appointment at www.ProaactiveRVA.com and get started. Your body and brain will be glad you did.
Thank you for trusting Proactive
Massage & Bodywork.
We look forward to seeing you in the clinic!
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