Our bodies are important, we need to take good care of them.
The mental and physical stress of work and play, the harmful elements we take in, the bad habits we have—all these factors bring our body down.
We need to pamper ourselves and give our bodies rest. We need time for relaxation.
One of the easiest ways for us to relax, recharge and detoxify is through a massage.
What is a massage?
Therapeutic massage is the rubbing and kneading of muscles and joints of the body to relieve tension and pain.
A massage can also ease tiredness or jet lag for those who travel. It promotes relaxation and well-being and is beneficial in treating sports-related injuries and other problems affecting the musculature of the body.
What are the benefits of getting a massage?
A good massage can help us feel deep relaxation and calm. It prompts the release of endorphins.
We must remember that high levels of stress impair the immune system, but a massage can reduce stress hormones.
Massage is also known to treat several disorders like anxiety, arthritis, back and neck pain, soft tissue injuries, chronic pain, depression, headache, high blood pressure and insomnia.
There are many more physical benefits to this therapy:
- Reduced muscle tension
- Improved circulation
- Stimulation of the lymphatic system
- Increased joint mobility and flexibility
- Improved skin tone
- Decreased recovery time for soft-tissue injuries
- Heightened mental alertness
- Reduced anxiety and depression
Why use oils for massage?
Massage can be done without oils or other emollients, but using oil reduces the friction between hands and skin. Including massage oil during a session may enhance the benefits of the massage, if you choose the right oil.
There are many beneficial oils that can be used. There’s sweet almond oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil and our favorite, coconut oil.
Should we use coconut oil for a massage?
Yes, indeed!
Coconut oil is very light, colorless and is absorbed easily into the skin. It is quite popular in tropical regions.
We can get many benefits from coconut oil. For one, it has antimicrobial properties. It contains MCTs which are great in treating some bacterial, viral or fungal infections. It also contains lauric and capric acids which are known to have an antimicrobial effect. Applying coconut oil on the skin can get rid of harmful bacteria and fungus and protect from infections.
Coconut oil also contains vitamin E which is well known to nourish the skin and make it smoother and softer. It has an antioxidant effect and makes skin look younger. It also helps in preventing breakouts and does not block skin pores.
It is also beneficial for the muscular system. It soothes and relaxes tight and tired muscles.
Anyone can get a coconut oil massage because coconut oil has no harmful effects, it’s safe for all ages and all types of skin.
Coconut oil massage can help your body relax after physical and mental stress, moisturize the skin, especially during the winter season. When used on children, it can fight off germs and make sure they do not cling to your baby’s skin. It acts as your protective shield.
When using coconut oil for a massage remember these three things:
- Use only pure/natural/ organic coconut oil, not the refined/RBD ones. We recommend using extra virgin coconut oil.
- Only mix other oils or extracts with the guidance of an expert.
- Although coconut oil will not stain, it is still advisable to use a spare sheet during a massage.
A good coconut oil massage might be the answer to those tight and tired muscles. Relieve yourself from everyday stress, and get pampered with a relaxing coconut oil massage.
Author Bio:
Author Name: Nadine Escudero
Nadine is a wandering writer and blogger. She loves travelling and exploring new places, and finding hole-in-the-wall dining places. As a wannabe cook, she loves discovering new recipes and ingredients, like the versatile coconut oil (and yes, she uses it on just about anything and everything). On lazy days, Nadine is spending time at the beach with her fur-babies, Pepe and Pido.
Love coconut oil!