Marion Vaughn III Marion Vaughn III

Taking Strides Toward Wellness: The Synergy of Running & Stretch Massage

Here at Relaxing On The Go Spa, we're all about journeying together in our collective pursuit of health and wellness. Today, let's talk about one of the most accessible forms of exercise and a service we pride ourselves in offering - running and stretch massage. Let's see how they fit hand-in-glove to promote overall well-being.

click here to book a Stretch massage

Here at Relaxing On The Go Spa, we're all about journeying together in our collective pursuit of health and wellness. Today, let's talk about one of the most accessible forms of exercise and a service we pride ourselves in offering - running and stretch massage. Let's see how they fit hand-in-glove to promote overall well-being.

Running, jogging, or even a brisk walk - these simple activities can work wonders for our bodies and minds. The beauty lies in the ease of integration into our daily routines and the myriad of health benefits they offer. Let's shed light on a few of these.

Weight loss is perhaps the most common association with regular running or jogging. The calorie burn you achieve from these activities can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases1.

But the benefits extend far beyond the weighing scale. Running and jogging have been shown to boost mood and mental well-being by stimulating the release of dopamine, the 'feel-good' neurotransmitter2. Furthermore, they help lower the risk of heart disease, strengthen the bones, and improve lung function3.

On the other side of this wellness duo, we have a stretch massage - an integral service offering at ROTG. This unique therapy blends traditional massage and assisted stretching techniques to tackle muscle tightness and joint discomfort. The result is improved flexibility and range of motion4.

Moreover, stretch massages can enhance blood and lymphatic circulation. This aids recovery from fatigue and injury while promoting an overall sense of wellness5.

Now, how do running and stretch massage create a wellness synergy?

Here's where it gets fascinating. Running, especially long distances, can cause muscle tightness and strain. A stretch massage after a run can help alleviate these discomforts, enhancing muscle recovery and flexibility6. Plus, the circulation boost from the massage can amplify the health benefits you gain from running, like improved heart health and increased metabolism7.

At ROTG, we're here to support you in this wellness journey, whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting to lace up those shoes. Our team is eager to guide you safely through this journey, aligning with our deeply rooted values of understanding, honesty, and mutual respect. We believe in nurturing our minds and bodies as we move forward, one stride, one stretch at a time.

Are you ready to explore this remarkable wellness synergy? Come and visit us at 644 Bultman Dr, Sumter SC, and let's kick-start this journey together.

Here's to taking strides towards wellness, together!

Best,

ROTG

Footnotes

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3406229/

  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1470658/

  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1470658/

  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3273886/

  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3090198/

  6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5932411/

  7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3273886/

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Marion Vaughn III Marion Vaughn III

Slipping into Slumber: How Massage Mirrors and Enhances the Benefits of Sleep

Welcome to another fascinating dive with Relaxing On The Go, where we'll be exploring the intriguing interplay between massage and sleep. This connection is perhaps more profound than you think! Let's delve into this relaxing journey to uncover the soothing similarities between massage and a good night's rest.

Click Here to book your massage

Welcome to another fascinating dive with Relaxing On The Go, where we'll be exploring the intriguing interplay between massage and sleep. This connection is perhaps more profound than you think! Let's delve into this relaxing journey to uncover the soothing similarities between massage and a good night's rest.

Consider the last time you had a thorough, soul-soothing massage. Remember that rush of relaxation? That release of tension that melted away like butter in the sun? Now, think about the feeling of sliding under cozy blankets after a long day, gradually surrendering to the sweet pull of sleep. If you compare these two experiences, you'll notice striking similarities, particularly in the calming sense of relaxation they both evoke.

Massage, much like sleep, acts as a potent panacea, not just to physical discomfort, but also to mental unrest. It triggers the release of endorphins2, your body's natural painkillers, while also boosting dopamine and serotonin3 levels, chemicals that regulate mood and promote relaxation. This release of 'feel-good' hormones mirrors the rejuvenating effects of deep sleep, paving the way to a tranquil state of mind and body.

But here's what's more interesting. The shared benefits between sleep and massage go beyond the immediate sensation of calm and relaxation. Both are also associated with an impressive lineup of health benefits that include reduced blood pressure, lowered stress levels, and enhanced immune function. Together, they form a powerful team that can substantially boost your health and wellbeing.

Now, we know that sleep is essential, but how about massage? Could it possibly provide any benefits to those who struggle with insomnia or sleep disturbances?

Well, according to a wealth of research, the answer is an emphatic yes. Studies have indicated that individuals who received massages reported improved sleep quality, including experiencing deeper sleep, fewer night-time awakenings, and overall better sleep efficiency. This suggests that regular massages could indeed be a practical, effective solution for those battling insomnia or facing sleep disturbances.

At Relaxing On The Go, we've always championed the healing potential of massage. Our understanding of its parallel benefits to sleep further cements its place in our toolbox for health and wellness.

But, how can you reap the most benefits? We recommend integrating regular massage sessions into your routine. If you're dealing with sleep issues, a massage once or twice a week could be your ticket to restful nights and energetic days.

Consider it a gentle reminder that self-care is never a luxury, but a necessity for a healthy, balanced life.

Always remember, the path to health and wellness is often as simple as a good night's sleep and a therapeutic massage.

Best, ROTG

Footnotes

  1. Cherkin, D. C., Sherman, K. J., Kahn, J., Wellman, R., Cook, A. J., Johnson, E., ... & Deyo, R. A. (2011). A comparison of the effects of 2 types of massage and usual care on chronic low back pain: a randomized, controlled trial. Annals of internal medicine, 155(1), 1-9. https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/0003-4819-155-1-201107050-00002

  2. Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., Diego, M., Schanberg, S., & Kuhn, C. (2005). Cortisol decreases and serotonin and dopamine increase following massage therapy. International Journal of Neuroscience, 115(10), 1397-1413. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16162447/

  3. Moyer, C. A., Rounds, J., & Hannum, J. W. (2004). A meta-analysis of massage therapy research. Psychological bulletin, 130(1), 3. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2004-10565-001

  4. Field, T., Diego, M., & Hernandez-Reif, M. (2010). Moderate pressure is essential for massage therapy effects. International Journal of Neuroscience, 120(5), 381-385. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/00207450903579475

  5. Rapaport, M. H., Schettler, P., & Bresee, C. (2010). A preliminary study of the effects of a single session of Swedish massage on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal and immune function in normal individuals. Journal of Alternative and complementary medicine, 16(10), 1079-1088. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2009.0634

  6. Perlman, A. I., Ali, A., Njike, V. Y., Hom, D., Davidi, A., Gould-Fogerite, S., ... & Katz, D. L. (2012). Massage therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized dose-finding trial. PLoS One, 7(2), e30248. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0030248

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