Our lives are increasingly characterized by hustle and bustle, leaving us little time to focus on our physical and mental wellbeing. As a result, holistic self-care practices are more important than ever. Two ancient practices, yoga and massage, when combined, can offer a potent recipe for wellness. At Revive Bodywork, we believe in the power of these combined modalities and are proud to offer both to our valued clients.

Yoga, dating back to over 5000 years, has long been hailed for its countless health benefits (1). From improved flexibility, strength, and balance to enhanced mental wellness, stress management, and mindfulness, yoga is a comprehensive self-care regimen. But when paired with massage therapies like deep tissue or Ashiatsu, the impact on our health and wellbeing deepens significantly.

Amplified Physical Benefits

Practicing yoga regularly improves muscle strength, flexibility, and posture. The inclusion of massage therapy, especially deep tissue or Ashiatsu, can further enhance these benefits (2). Deep tissue massage targets the inner layers of your muscles, tendons, and fascia (dense connective tissues), thus helping to alleviate muscle tension and improve flexibility - a crucial aspect of an effective yoga practice.

Moreover, Ashiatsu massage, also known as "barefoot massage," delivers broad, consistent pressure that not only relieves muscle tension but also stretches the muscles and fascia. This complements the flexibility-enhancing benefits of yoga, allowing practitioners to reach deeper poses and prolong their hold times (3).

Enhanced Recovery and Pain Management

Muscle soreness and minor injuries are not uncommon among those new to yoga or pushing their boundaries. Massage therapy can aid in quicker recovery and effective pain management. Studies have shown that massage increases blood flow to strained areas, reducing inflammation and promoting cell repair (4). This can expedite recovery times, enabling you to return to your yoga mat quicker and stronger.

Boosted Mental Wellbeing

The combination of yoga and massage also offers immense mental health benefits. While yoga is well-known for promoting mindfulness and reducing stress, adding massage into your routine amplifies these effects. Massage therapy has been found to decrease cortisol levels (a stress hormone) while increasing serotonin and dopamine levels (mood-enhancing hormones) (5). This powerful combination can help combat daily stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression, leading to improved overall mental health.

A More Holistic Self-Care Routine

Incorporating yoga and massage into your wellness routine encourages a more holistic approach to self-care. Both practices stress the importance of mindfulness and the mind-body connection. By paying attention to your body's needs, whether it's a deep stretch in yoga or relieving muscle knots through massage, you can cultivate a better understanding of your physical and mental state. This awareness is key in developing a self-care routine that not only addresses your present needs but also helps prevent future health concerns.

At Revive Bodywork, we're dedicated to offering comprehensive self-care solutions. Our expert practitioners are well-versed in both yoga and various massage techniques, creating a synergistic blend of these therapies tailored to your needs.

The research supports the myriad benefits of combining yoga and massage, but as with any wellness regimen, the proof is in the practice. We invite you to experience the potency of this combination firsthand. Start your journey toward a more holistic approach to self-care today, enhancing your yoga practice with the supportive power of massage therapy.

It's time to prioritize your wellbeing and take advantage of the comprehensive benefits that the marriage of yoga and massage offers.

Sources:

1. "History of Yoga." Yoga Basics. (https://www.yogabasics.com/learn/history-of-yoga/)

2. "Massage: Get in touch with its many benefits." Mayo Clinic. (https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/massage/art-20045743)

3. "Ashiatsu Massage - A Barefoot Therapy." Pacific College of Health and Science. (https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/09/05/ashiatsu-massage-barefoot-therapy)

4. Crane JD, Ogborn DI, Cupido C, et al. Massage Therapy Attenuates Inflammatory Signaling After Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage. Science Translational Medicine. 2012;4(119):119ra13. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22301554)

5. Rapaport MH, Schettler P, Bresee C. A Preliminary Study of the Effects of a Single Session of Swedish Massage on Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal and Immune Function in Normal Individuals. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2010;16(10):1079-1088. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3107905/)