Is taking better care of yourself on your list of resolutions for the new year?
As you know, a good self-care routine is vital in our increasingly stressful world. You probably also know that regular massages can do wonders for your physical and mental health.
The question is: How frequently should you get a massage?
Maybe you save massages for special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries. Maybe you have (very lucky) friends who are able to get a massage once or twice a week. Or maybe you fall somewhere in the middle and you try to schedule a massage a few times a year.
What’s the ideal number of massages to help you feel your very best? Keep reading below as our experts weigh in!
Luxury or Self-Care?
Once viewed merely as a luxury for the wealthy, there’s now plenty of proven medical science about the benefits of massage therapy.
Massage offers numerous benefits for your physical and mental well-being. This is true whether you struggle with anxiety, you’re recovering from an injury, or you suffer from a condition like fibromyalgia.
So then, how frequently should you receive a massage?
The optimum frequency of massages depends on your individual needs, lifestyle, and health goals. While there’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer, here are some guidelines on how often you should consider getting a massage.
How Often Should You Receive a Massage?
Let’s assume you’re generally in good health and looking to improve your self-care routine. For general wellness and stress relief, receiving a massage once a month could be very beneficial.
This frequency allows you to relax and release muscle tension. It’s also a healthy way to alleviate stress accumulated from daily life. Monthly massages can contribute to better sleep, improved mood, and fewer aches and pains.
With that said, certain factors might warrant more frequent sessions.
For anyone with chronic pain, recent injuries, or specific health conditions, a more frequent schedule could offer the best results. Weekly or bi-weekly massages can reduce pain, improve flexibility, and promote faster recovery.
Athletes (or anyone engaged in intense physical activities) might also benefit from more frequent massages. Regular massages can prevent sports injuries, aid muscle recovery, and enhance performance. If you lead a very active lifestyle, scheduling a massage every 1-2 weeks might be the perfect frequency for you.
Of course, your physical health isn’t the only factor to consider. Do you deal with high stress levels, demanding work, or caregiver burnout? These lifestyle factors play a major role in determining massage frequency.
If you currently have a lot of stress in your life or a physically demanding job (or both), consider getting massages 2-3 times a month. These regular sessions will help to counteract the effects of stress on your body.
To-Do List: Schedule Your Next Massage Today
Ultimately, the ideal frequency of massages for you depends on several factors.
It’s essential to listen to your body and communicate your concerns with your massage therapist. They’ll be happy to assess your needs and suggest a massage schedule that will help you reach your wellness goals.
At Simply Massage, our goal is to help you feel your best — whether that means coming in once a month, once a week, or a few times each year. Call us today at 970-748-1600 or click here to schedule your next massage online.