Massage: An Essential, Not a Luxury
04 Dec 2008 ~ Categories: blog • body • wellness
In trying economic times it’s comforting to remember that there is one possession that no one can take away from you: your own body.
The better care you take of your “vessel”, as the ancient eastern traditions called it, the richer you will ultimately be in spirit and soul. This time of year, it’s so easy to focus our energy outward – squeezing in all those holiday parties, finding the time to buy gifts for everyone, helping out those in need – and we often forget to take care of ourselves with the love and care that we deserve. It’s vital to take time out for yourself during hectic times.
This is a great reason to indulge in massage therapy. IO offers a blissful gamut of bodywork alternatives in our sanctuary of a spa: from deep-tissue massage to reflexology to acupuncture to our favorite, the IO Organic Fusion Massage, which combines Swedish massage techniques with Shiatsu and Thai Yoga in order to melt tension and awaken energy pathways (while hydrating and softening the skin with our very own IO Anoint Oil.) This combination of aromatherapy and the power of touch is beyond relaxing. And relaxing, as any stressed out soul knows, is healing.
My favorite quality-control responsibility as co-owner of IO is that I am “obligated” to sample our massage therapists regularly in order to ensure that we are really offering the best. Although it’s a requirement of my job, I secretly cherish this opportunity to indulge in regular bodywork with our amazing team of professionals. From the moment I slip off my shoes, ditch my Blackberry, and wrap myself in a comfy IO robe, I feel pampered and taken care of. I try to arrive a little early so that I can lounge in the peace of the waiting area and hydrate with sips of cucumber water before my treatment. And after my session, I make time for a dip in the steam room to evaporate any last toxins before I step out into the world again.
The best thing about a great treatment session is that it relaxes the mind and spirit as well as the physical body. If you can enter this physical and mental sanctuary often enough, I think you’ll find a global shift in your day-to-day experience. I know this has been true for me.
When considered from this point of view, massage is not a luxury at all. In fact, regular massage is such a bargain for your body, mind and soul that you might say you can’t afford not to do it.
Take care of your best possession, YOU,
Amy
