Bodywork, like massages and other therapies, can provide endless benefits like reducing the chance of injury and enhancing performance. Bodywork forces us to slow down and look inward while boosting circulation and blood flow. Most bodywork therapies stretch back centuries and are proven to heal aches and pains of all sorts.

Massages

One of the oldest healing traditions, massage therapy was used by ancient cultures including Ancient Greeks, Egyptians, Chinese, and Indians for a variety of ailments. Massage therapy manipulates the muscles through kneading and applying pressure to relieve stress, anxiety, back pain, insomnia, even high blood pressure. Massage therapy allows for immediate feelings of deep relaxation and calm because it triggers the release of endorphins.

Acupuncture

Stretching back 3,000 years, this ancient Chinese medicinal practice is used to treat a wide range of conditions. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific anatomic sites, or acupoints, to help the body with its self-healing process. This practice is based on the philosophy that the universe and the body are two opposing forces — yin and yang. When energy is flowing, these forces are in balance and the body is healthy. However, if the energy is blocked, that disruption can lead to pain or lack of function. Acupuncture is meant to unblock these pathways and allow energy to flow freely again.

Cupping

Another ancient practice, cupping is a form of alternative medicine where special cups are placed on your skin to create suction. Cupping is known to help combat pain and inflammation while stimulating blood flow and relaxation. Even though there haven’t been a lot of scientific studies on cupping, there’s a loyal following for this therapy, especially when paired with other therapies like acupuncture or physical therapy.

If you’re sore from cleaning the house and getting those to-do’s done, schedule yourself a massage. You deserve it. Alfred will help finish up the rest of the errands around the house.