Lately, our world has been a bit or, maybe even a lot, chaotic. In this world of chaos I want to give you permission to be selfish. What I mean by this is to take time for you and care for yourself. My motto has been that you have to take care of yourself first if you want to take care of others. You need to give yourself that energy and motivation in order to stay out of that slump and not let the chaos control you.
So how do we get out of the slump?
It is important to engage in those activities you enjoy or can find relaxing. Stress is real and it can have real effects on your body, mind, and spirit. One of the best ways to help keep your body, mind, and spirit limber is through regular massage.
Massage therapy does not just help give you relaxation. It has so many more benefits. Prevention Magazine has provided 6 benefits of massage being:
1. Relieving anxiety
2. Better sleep
3. Less fatigue
4. Better immune system functioning
5. Better focus
6. Healing injuries
I recently had the pleasure to get a massage from a local rockstar massage therapist Atia Washington Miller, owner of Awaken by the Purest Touch, LLC. Atia provides mobile massage, spa and body treatments plus retail products. She will come visit you throughout the Savannah and low-country area
Atia came to my home (of course while following all COVID-19 safety precautions) and was able to provide the ultimate relaxing environment, because where else do you feel the most comfortable than at home! Atia is seriously the best! The quality and thoroughness of the massage was impeccable. You can tell that Atia is truly a professional and knowledgable about the craft of massage therapy.
I can honestly say I felt so amazing after my massage. My muscles felt overall relaxed, loose, and limber. My mind felt clearer and more focused and my mood felt uplifted. After my massage ended, Atia discussed with me my problem areas are recommendations for improvement. She also makes and offers her own retail products for the body. Her body polish is AH-MAZING!
I recently interviewed Atia to get her tips and tricks on the importance of massage and overall wellness.
Q. Besides relaxation, what would some other benefits of a massage be?
A. There are many benefits of massage ranging from physical to emotional changes. Research indicates that massage is effective in managing pain, soft tissue injury, anxiety, stress, high blood pressure as well as insomnia.
Q. Tell me about the oil you use and the wellness benefits of it.
A. The oil I use during my massage treatments is a handcrafted oil blend. The oil is a blend of “Lavender and Lemon” essential oils. Lavender is a herb commonly used for medicinal and therapeutic benefits. It reduces blood fat/cholesterol and is also used as an anti-inflammatory. Lavender is best known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Pure Lemon essential oil improves micro-circulation thereby affecting blood pressure and responses to inflammation. Lemon is often used to improve memory and promote relaxation. I believe the combination of Lavender and Lemon are a Harmonious blend. Their essence compliments each other and the benefits align with wellness.
Q. What are some ways people can help keep their muscles healthy and limber in between massages?
A. FUEL YOUR BODY. A massage session is a jump start. The work doesn’t begin or end once you receive a massage. A balanced diet will provide you with the key ingredients to maintain a healthy body and mind. Physical in between massages you should stretch daily and engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity several times a week. Joint pain or low back pain is the most common issue that clients seek help for, strength training and daily stretching can be very beneficial to add to your wellness routine.
Q. For a first timer who might be intimidated by getting a massage, what would be some advice for them in finding the right massage therapist?
A. First asks yourself “What are my expectations from a massage? Are you looking for Pain Management or Relaxation”? – With that initial information then find a business/ therapist that aligns with your goals or expectations. This may be a health club, spa, medical clinic, or your own home.
– Ask for recommendations I believe this is the most valuable tool if a person is searching for a massage therapist. When seeking a quality massage therapist, recommendations are important. Talk to friends and family, look online to see what reviews say.
Q. As a wellness professional, what are some things you do to take care of yourself?
A. Taking the advice that you give daily is sometimes difficult. I do believe self-care is the best care. I stick to my regime of weekly exfoliating and stretching at night to keep my core engaged. Like most massage therapists I don’t receive massages as often as I should but It is the first thing I do when I am experiencing any discomfort.
Q. Any other key things you would like people to know about massage therapy, yourself, or your company?
A. My highest priority is to provide a luxury spa experience that will awaken your senses, inspire wellness and nurture self-care. I strive to Innovate, inspire and elevate the culture of the luxury mobile spa industry. I believe that you must Restore your Mind and Renew your Body in order to Rejuvenate your Soul.
If you are looking for a way to improve your body, mind and spirit and give your body some extra TLC, a massage might be the perfect option for you. If you are here in the Savannah or Low Country area then you need to have Atia come visit you today. She will provide you with the utmost relaxation and care. You can find her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/purest_touch_massage/ or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/puresttouchmassage.
A special THANK YOU to Atia for your time and the opportunity to interview you.
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