Regular Massage Benefits

Keep a life full of stress, anxiety, and muscle pain from stealing your joy and comfort. Familiarize yourself with the benefits of massage and how it can improve your quality of life.

yourfootpalace.com gathered information about the benefits of getting regular massages and what types of massage you can choose from.

Benefits of Massage to the Body

Routines at work and home can leave us stressed out, cramped up, and depressed. The following are some of the benefits of regular massages and how they can improve your quality of life:

Stress and Anxiety Relief – During and after a massage, endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin are released. Those dealing with stress and anxiety can benefit from regular massage, as these “feel good” chemicals are related to a reduction in anxiety disorder and stress.

• Endorphins are polypeptides produced by the pituitary gland and central nervous system. They primarily assist in dealing with stress and reduce sensations of pain.
• Dopamine is a neurotransmitter produced by the body. Sometimes called a “chemical messenger,” dopamine is used by the nervous system to relay messages between nerve cells. Dopamine plays a role in our ability to think, plan, and feel pleasure. When endorphin activity occurs, dopamine production is increased.
• Serotonin is a neurotransmitter (some consider it to be a hormone) produced in the brain and intestines that help regulate one’s mood and social behavior.

Regular massage can also help you better regulate your sleep. Being well-rested is an essential factor in reducing the symptoms of stress and anxiety.

Increased Circulation – Muscles and organs require oxygen for proper healing and functioning. Blood flow stimulation is one of the most significant benefits of massage as it increases oxygen and nutrients to the blood.

By increasing one’s circulation, sore muscles can be healed, back pain can be relieved, and overall health and well-being improved.

Relax Muscles and Prevent Muscle Strain – Since massage increases the production of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, it also naturally reduces muscle tension. The increased circulation and oxygen saturation promote muscle tissue integrity and healing.

Massage also prevents muscle strain by improving elasticity and flexibility of connective tissues linking muscles to joints. When people suffer less pain, less pharmaceuticals are needed for pain management. Thus, fewer side-effects occur.

Improved Posture – Understand that good posture refers to three natural curves present in a healthy spine, one at the neck, a second at the mid-back, and a third at the lower back. Correct posture maintains these curves without increasing them. Regular massage can:

• Allow the body to align itself naturally by relaxing muscles and making tissues more flexible.
• Help reverse habitual bad posture from activities like lifting and sitting.
• Reduce muscle fatigue and tension, relieving joint compression, resulting in less degeneration or arthritic changes.

That pain in your back or neck may be caused by your posture, and there are various massage techniques that can be beneficial for you.

Types of Massage

Before getting regular massages, visit your primary care physician to discuss any health issues that can be exacerbated by repetitive massage activities. You can also discuss the different types of massage that may be right for you. Some of those types are:

Swedish Massage – Often referred to as a classic massage. It is designed to relax the body by rubbing oiled muscles in long, gentle, gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. However, the benefits of Swedish massage can go beyond relaxation by helping increase the level of oxygen in the blood and improving both circulation and flexibility.

Deep Tissue Massage – This massage therapy is similar to Swedish massage. With a deep tissue massage, slow, firm pressure is applied to release muscle tension. The primary focus of deep tissue massage is on the deep layers of muscle tissue, tendons, and fascia (the protective layer within the body surrounding muscles, bones, and joints).

Reflexology – Also known as zone therapy, reflexology is the application of pressure to mapped out areas on the feet and/or hands. Reflexology is generally soothing and relaxing and helps to alleviate stress. The philosophy behind reflexology is that mapped out areas of the feet and hands correspond to and stimulate organs and systems of the body.

Shiatsu Massage – Also known as acupressure, Shiatsu (meaning finger pressure) is a technique that involves manual pressure to points on the body to relieve tension and pain. This massage uses thumbs, fingers, elbows, and knees to concentrate pressure at specific energy pathways in the body called meridians.

In any of the types of massage, the intention is ultimately to help people relax, destress, and sleep as it aids the body in releasing “feel good” chemicals. Regular monthly massages can all but guarantee a better disposition and better sleep.

Massage Therapy Benefits

In this article, you discovered many of the benefits of regular massages and the different types you have to choose from.

By getting regular massages, you can reduce stress, increase flexibility, sleep better, improve your posture, and better your outlook on life and responsibilities.

Neglecting your need to destress and find relief for your muscle pain can result in hypertension, severe muscle cramps, and exacerbate any underlying health issues.

Sources:
mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/massage/art-20045743
msccollege.edu/blogs/massage-therapy/guide-swedish-massage/
fremont.edu/deep-tissue-massage/
takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/reflexology/how-does-reflexology-work
maogenes.usc.edu/what-is-serotonin-and-why-is-it-important/
ele.uri.edu/courses/bme181/F07/Ryan_2.pdf
hms.harvard.edu/news/zeroing-dopamine
amcollege.edu/blog/shiatsu

Foot Palace Massage Spa Athens

1720 Epps Bridge Pkwy Ste 106, Athens,  GA 30606
(706) 521-5290

Foot Palace Massage Spa Braselton

2095 Highway 211 NW Suite 7B, Braselton, GA 30517
(678) 963-5958

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Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Pain with a Foot Massage

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common orthopedic complaints.  Those that suffer often experience sharp heel pain and stiffness with their first step out of bed in the morning. This pain can range from mild discomfort to debilitating and is caused from inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue. This thin web-like ligament runs across the bottom of your foot connecting your heel bone to your toes. This thin ligament is the foot’s arch support that helps you walk. The pain normally lessens as your foot limbers up throughout the day, but it can return if you spend a majority of your day standing. We don’t consider it, but our daily lives put a lot of stress on our feet and plantar fascia ligament.

Plantar fasciitis affects nearly 2 million Americans each year and is a common orthopedic condition frequently found in runners. The ligament normally acts as a shock absorber, and putting too much pressure on this ligament can wreak havoc on your feet. Although, planter fasciitis doesn’t just affect runners, you may also be at risk if you are overweight, late in a pregnancy, menopausal, or wear shoes with inadequate arch support. Maintaining a healthy weight, stretching before physical activity, and wearing shoes with proper arch / heel support may mitigate your risk.

A specialized massage can help relieve some of the pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis.  A reflexology massage is beneficial because it uses pressure point techniques to release tension in the feet and relieves heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis. A less invasive natural treatment for Plantar Fasciitis is to massage the feet. Plantar Fasciitis surgery is too invasive for most people and costs a lot of money!

During a reflexology massage session, you fist soak your feet in hot Epson mineral salt water to help draw inflammation out of the sore muscles. Once your muscles have loosened up from the warm salt soak, a therapist begins working on breaking up the “crystals” in your feet, loosing up the tight bands of the fascia, and then stretches the ligaments and Achilles tendon.  This massage technique helps to further relax the muscles in the feet and calves, and increases circulation and flexibility. Consequently, increased circulation and flexibility in your lower legs and feet reduces the inflammation causing pain. Like most injuries, there's no instant cure, but receiving regular foot massage and reflexology sessions can help you achieve pain relief in minutes. When treated frequently, this specialized massage helps to gradually experience less pain on a daily basis, and improves overall flexibility and range of motion in your feet, heels, and lower legs.

To view the original version of this article, visit: http://www.yourfootpalace.com/how-foot-massage-can-relieve-your-plantar-fasciitis-pain/

Popular Anti-Aging Jade Stone Facial Massage Benefits

Jade stone facials are a popular trend across major US cities with its anti-aging beauty benefits. This facial doesn’t focus on extractions, but rather the release of impurities from within. The opening and stimulating of lymphatic drainage is how this is achieved. The list of improved complexion benefits include; toning, lifting and firming skin. Users may also experience a reduction in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, puffy eyes, dark circles as well as restoring natural skin tone. This particular jade stone rejuvenating facial treatment is ideal for those who want a radiant glow before a big event or public appearance.

This anti-aging treatment is ideal for all skin types and benefits men and women in helping reduce the signs of aging. Though this is not a permanent solution for those fine lines or loose skin, but you can see immediate results often lasting up to weeks.

Jade Stone Facial Process

A jade stone facial massage is performed on clean skin (without makeup) using fractionated coconut oil and warm jade gemstones. During the facial the jade stones are manipulated in very specific gentle and smooth motions that instantly stimulate movement of lymphatic fluids and blood circulation, thus causing the immediate result of lifted, even-toned, and glowing skin.

Benefits of Jade Stone Facials

The face has 300 intricate pressure points that link to other parts of the body. In our daily lives we don’t use half of them. Therapists lightly apply the gemstones and massage your face, activating lymphatic draining. Lymphatic drainage detoxifies the skin and aids in reducing puffiness and boosting the immune system. This can mean fewer breakouts and clearer complexion weeks after the jade stone facial massage.

Additionally, targeting facial pressure points can relieve sinus problems, headaches, TMJ syndrome, and other head issues. Not only do you get to reap the health benefits, but also the added bonus of the rejuvenating anti-aging effect. Receiving regular facial massages can stimulate energy flow through your organs and rebalance yourself from the inside out.

The Science behind Jade Stone Facials

Jade is a protective stone that signifies tranquil wisdom; it is also a symbol of serenity and purity. This natural gemstone has a microelement composition that transmits heat, which helps circulate the internal pathways throughout the body. When it contacts the skin, the gemstone generates an electromagnetic field around the body. Using jade gemstones for facial massages work by creating an energetic friction to the targeted area, followed by energetic canals with motion. Overall these remarkable gemstones help balance the body system and mind.

Each individual responds differently and may experience different benefits from a jade stone facial massage. Regardless, this smooth and gentle massage is going to leave you feeling fresh and relaxed while making you look your best!

Whether you need a facial, massage or other spa treatment, Foot Palace invites you in for a soothing and relaxing experience.

Spa Treatments: The History, Health Benefits and Growing Popularity

Image: Foot Palace of Athens

Who doesn’t enjoy a little rest and relaxation? Today spas and hot springs are in the top two tourist inspired destinations globally. The most visited are located in the Mediterranean and in far Eastern Asia. 

Since the beginning of modern civilization we have been enjoying mineral baths, foot spas, and a plethora of spa related indulgences. Not only do these spa inspired R&R retreats alleviate stress, they improve our health - giving ample cause for vacationers to flock to spas on their work holidays. 

In many countries spa practices are not just for holidays, the spa is a daily or weekly part of a typical health regimen. If a little R&R on the annual vacation can alleviate stress and improve your mood, imagine how you would feel integrating spa practices into your regular health regimen.


The earliest descriptions of spa practices originated in Greece. The Grecians introduced the first foot baths in the second millennium BC. These spas were established to promote healing using therapeutic water to relieve fatigue and to improve health. Archeologists have documented hot springs, mineral baths, and spas in nearly every ancient civilization for the same practices of curing physical and mental related ailments. 

In the Celtic hot spring baths of England, the spas are believed to purify the body both physically and spiritually. The Japanese foot baths or “Ashiyu” have been the source of health pilgrimages to various hot springs for over 1,600 years. 

So what is it about these foot spas that accounts for their prominence since ancient times? Spas improve circulation, reduce stress, alleviate headaches, reduce the symptoms of PMS, and many other ailments by detoxifying the body. Our feet and underarms are primary pathways for discharging toxins from the body. 

Feet also contain energy channels which have been long observed by the Chinese. The Chinese foot spa practices include reflexology, or the use of pressure points to aid in improving circulation and detoxification.


There are many ways of performing a foot detox today including the aforementioned reflexology, in addition to foot pads, ionic baths, and the more traditional mineral foot bath originating in ancient Roman spas. 

While it may be difficult to coordinate regular spa retreats, foot spas offering mineral baths and reflexology are a more convenient addition to every health regimen. Foot spas have been popular local destinations in the East, and are quickly becoming popular in the West as the health benefits of regular spa practices are recommended by health practitioners. 

Next time you are searching for a foot spa near you, be sure to inquire about reflexology.