In this busy world, we live in, many people find it difficult to find the time to take care of themselves. For those in a caretaking position such as nurses, parents, those working in elder care or those taking care of an infirmed family member, self-care can be even more difficult.

Caretakers can experience feelings of guilt when taking time out of caring for others to take care of themselves. After all, others are counting on you, it is your duty to put them first, isn’t it?

The Toll of Caretaking

The answer is no. Yes, those in your care count on you. But how can you take the necessary steps to care for others, when you have not extended that same courtesy to yourself?

Caretaking is a full-time job in itself, alongside the other possible jobs one may have in a day. Your body, mind, and soul need the support and care that you are extending to those around you!

Here are some of the physical and mental hardships your body may be dealing with

  • Fatigue
  • Body aches and pains
  • A build-up of muscle tension from physical exertion
  • Increase in stress
  • Build up of negative chemicals such as cortisol and lactic acid

These side effects not only affect your wellbeing but it can also negatively impact your ability to take care of those who are most important to you.

Benefits of Massage

The good news is, there are things you can do to counter these negative impacts. One of which being, massage therapy.

Massage therapy is just that … it is therapy. Therapy for your mind and your body.

Rather than thinking of massage as a luxury you should feel guilty for indulging in, think of it as a tool you can use not just to feel better, but to improve your capacity.

Here is how you may benefit from massage therapy

  • Reduce muscle tension
  • Improve flexibility
  • Decrease stress
  • Better quality of sleep
  • Decrease cortisol
  • Improve sense of well-being

I bet you didn’t expect something as simple as a massage to serve all of these needs!

Giving over just one hour every month for a massage can make a real difference in not only your physical wellbeing, but your energy will radiate from the inside out.

Make Your Wellness a Priority

As well as a regular massage, there are some other steps you can work into your routine to maximize your self-care.

  • A healthy, balanced diet
  • Regular stretching or yoga
  • Regular exercise
  • Meditation
Self-Care Isn’t A Luxury

As you can see, there’s no need to feel guilty about taking the time to take care of yourself. Contrary to your beliefs before you read this, by devoting a few hours to wellness, this will have a positive impact on yourself and those under your care, too.

Contact your local Massage Experts clinic to find a therapist that works for you and get started on a path to self-care!

To book your first massage with Jenny at Massage Experts Halifax North, click here.

To book a massage therapy session at any of our other locations, click here.

 

 

Thank you for visiting the Feel Better Blog. Blogs and videos showcased within this page have been written by your local Massage Experts team members, who have made reasonable efforts to present accurate information. Massage Experts Franchising Ltd. and its affiliates cannot be responsible for any of the results experienced from following the information provided. This information is not medical advice and hence should be treated as being for “informational purposes only”. Any statements or claims made on these blogs reflect the individual author’s opinions and do not represent the specific views or policies of Massage Experts Franchising Ltd. and its affiliated locations. If you have any questions regarding your specific condition please book a visit with your local Massage Experts team or contact your family physician.