A day at the spa is always a nice treat, but the benefits of going to the spa visit extend far beyond the relaxation that comes with a luxurious massage or much-needed pedicure. Take a closer look at the benefits of a few popular spa treatments. If you’re on the fence about this self-care investment, this might just change your mind about going.
Benefits of Massage Therapy
It’s no secret that massage has restorative powers. It helps us take a beat to find some calm in the chaos, and it offers an unparalleled opportunity for self-care. While everyone knows that massage can relieve tension and help to de-stress, fewer people may understand the science behind why massage not only feels so good, but why it’s actually good for you.
The science behind why massage feels so good lies in its effect on your biochemistry. First, research has shown that massage therapy can reduce cortisol levels—your body’s primary stress hormone. In addition to lowering cortisol levels, research also shows that massage can increase your body’s serotonin and dopamine levels, or the “feel-good” hormones in your body. Increased serotonin levels enhance your mood and moderate symptoms of depression, and dopamine is commonly referred to as the “feel-good neurotransmitter” because it boosts your feelings of satisfaction, pleasure, and motivation.
Research has also shown that massage therapy can boost your immune system response and immune function. In a 2010 study conducted by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, participants who received a 45-minute massage had an increased lymphocyte count at the conclusion of their treatment. It would seem that after a massage the tiny little warriors that defend our bodies against disease are hard at work.
If that weren’t enough, massage can also enhance flexibility, improve sleep, reduce fatigue, and even help with pain management.
Benefits of Facials
A good spa facial deep cleans your face, sloughs off dead skin cells, and hydrates dry, parched skin. All of these processes work in harmony to improve blood flow and speed up skin cell renewal to reveal plump, bright skin with more even tone and texture. Facials can also:
- Detoxify the skin
- Reduce acne scars and hyperpigmentation
- Eliminate blackheads and whiteheads
- Reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles
Benefits of Manicures and Pedicures
From exposure to harsh weather to constant washing with soaps and cleansers, everything that your hands and feet do can really take a toll on your skin and your nails, leaving them dry, cracked, and probably in need of some TLC. Manicures and pedicures can undo a lot of that damage by deep cleaning your hands and feet, exfoliating dead skin, and removing calluses to give your extremities a new (and fresh) lease on life. What’s more, they often include a refreshing soak and a relaxing massage, which can improve circulation as well as joint mobility.
Enjoy the Benefits of Spa Therapy at milk + honey spa
Spa treatments are far more than just a 60-minute massage. While they certainly help you de-stress and relax, they also have plenty of lasting health benefits, too. From enhancing your mood to improving your immune function, the list is long. If you’re still not sure about the splurge, just think of it as an investment in your self-care that will, without doubt, pay dividends down the line.
If you’re interested in any of these treatments, book an appointment at your local milk + honey spa.
1 Comment
I like that you talked about how spa treatments have plenty of lasting health benefits. My wife and I got some free time this weekend so we are thinking of just relaxing. For that, we should probably ask for some day spa services.