SARAH GAUDETTE'S – SIMPLE TECHNIQUES FOR REMOVING EVERYDAY STRESS AND MUSCLE TENSION
Tips to make the most of your massage
Are you anxious about your social and family obligations this holiday? Having trouble taking time for yourself? Many people cancel their massage appointments this time of the year -- just when they need it most. But massage can be the best gift you give yourself.
Massage can help you let go, breathe deeply, and bring you back to balance. Massage is known for its ability to release chronic tension before it causes muscle use imbalances that can lead to injuries. Studies show that massage can even boost the immune system! So you can avoid injuries and the flu at the same time you relax and rejuvenate the mind.
6 ways to really unwind
It's a busy time of year. Remember your body and mind are wired to need breaks from stress. Here are six ideas to help you turn your massage session into a mini-retreat.
1. Schedule your massage sessions ahead. This can help you avoid being overwhelmed by pre-event anxiety or post-event let down.
2. If possible, sweat in a sauna or soak in a hot tub or herbal bath before your massage to give your muscles a chance to warm and relax. Afterward, sit or lie quietly in the massage room or other quiet space before reentering the world.
3. If your feet or back hurt from standing while cooking and shopping, ask for extra attention in those areas to relieve muscle tension and pain.
4. Don't go back to work or run errands after your session. Go home and avoid the computer and telephone. Lie down, listen to music, or do simple activities such as drawing or folding laundry to keep your mind in a dreamy state.
5. Take a leisurely walk or sit by a window with a view of trees, water or a garden. Relax your eyes and focus on the colors and textures of the earthly environment.
6. Before bed, drink a cup of herb tea such as chamomile or lavender to help you sleep. Sleepytime is a popular commercial tea many people like to help them get a good night's rest.
Remember, massage may be just the ticket to help you relieve stress and stay healthy -- so that you can get the most enjoyment from the holidays you celebrate. You may even want to plan an extra massage to help unwind in the middle of the holiday rush.
Massage & Wellness - Bradenton, Florida
Sarah Gaudette is the owner and massage therapist at her practice, Paradise Therapy. Before going to massage school, Sarah graduated from Johnson State College in Vermont with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2002. Afterward, she worked as a Counselor for a Mental Health Agency. Sarah went on to graduate from Florida College of Natural Health in Orlando, Florida where she received her diploma in Therapeutic Massage in 2005. Sarah is a professional member of the American Massage Therapy Association and a Reiki Master. She received her certification for Reiki 1 in 2002, Reiki 2 in 2008 and her Reiki Master (Reiki 3) certification in October 2011. Sarah specializes in Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage. She believes that massage does not need to be painful in order to be effective. Her slow massage strokes and techniques allow the muscles to relax so that the deeper muscle layers can unwind without damage. Sarah is also well accomplished in Reiki Energy Work, Reiki-Massage, Combo Massage, Foot Reflexology, Hot Stone Massage and Prenatal Therapy. Her work in day spas before becoming a business owner influenced her in creating the mini-indulgences as well as the Aromatic Body Polish, Shea Butter Body Wrap and Aloe Sunburn Relief treatment. She is excited that the business continues to grow every year and looks forward to many years to come.
