Autumn Equinox and the Benefits of Massage therapy
This year the Autumn equinox falls on Saturday, September 23, which marks the astrological moment when the Sun is directly over the equator meaning the day and night are equal in length. The Autumn Equinox marks a shift between the summer and winter energies, which are very different. Autumn is a spiritual time of balance and pause and a transitional moment between the bright half of the year and the dark portion.
We will begin to spend more time in darkness and see the moon in the sky for longer, giving us time for rest, intimate connection, solitude, and reflection on our whole being.
Transitioning between seasons is a natural process, however it requires some adjustments in both our body and mind things that we often take for granted has a huge significant impact on our overall wellness when switching from the warm weather and light in summer to the first chills and the longer nights in autumn. So how can massage therapy help prepare you for autumn.
When summer the holidays are over, getting back work or further education routines can often lead to stress and anxiety, as daily schedules get busier and many of us experience a lack of sleep and an overall feeling of fatigue and tension, due to our muscles tightening up and our heart rate increasing as a response to the external demands. The pressure applied by massage therapy will help soften knots and stiffness, stimulating the production of endorphins, the “feel good hormones”, and decreasing the levels of cortisol, also called the “stress hormone”. Furthermore, massage will assist keeping a healthy heart rate by activating some trigger points linked to the vagus nerve, which is responsible for regulating blood circulation.
After the Autumn Equinox, days get shorter and nights get progressively longer, which can have a significant impact on our mood, making us more subject to mild states of depression and melancholy. As previously mentioned, massage therapy can help fighting the seasonal blues as it increases the levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are the hormones responsible for our good mood. It is also important to consider that massage therapy is a key part of a well-balanced fitness routine, as it promotes muscle recovery and facilitates body movement and flexibility. When we have an active lifestyle, it is easier to feel positive and focused.
The shortage of light does not only have an impact on our mood, but on our physical health as well due to the reduced production of vitamin D caused by the lower exposure to sun rays. In addition, the drop in temperature can trigger symptoms of cold and flu, creating extra demands to our immune system. Massage therapy, with its benefits on blood circulation, will increase the flow of lymphatic fluid bringing more white blood cells, which oversees the fighting off infections and bacteria, in the areas of the body where they are most needed. Our immune system will be, as a result, more efficient and stronger.
Going back to work or college leads us to spend more hours sitting at a desk, often not in the ideal posture for our body. This can cause tension and stiffness resulting in severe, neck, and shoulder pain. In addition to physical exercise and stretching, massage therapy helps relieve muscle tension, promoting a better posture and improving an overall feeling of relaxation and well-being.
Changes in schedules, stress and anxiety can make us feel the need of doing more things in less time, which often impacts on our quality of sleep. Massage therapy can help you sleep better as it promotes the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep cycles, by acting as a circulation boost. Even if you have a massage in the morning, its soothing and calming effects on your mind and body will stay until it's bedtime
If you would like to experience the benefits of massage therapy, to fully enjoy the beautiful autumn season, do not hesitate to contact us @surrealholistictherapy.com or 07758754317.
References
Autumn is coming benefits of massage therapy when seasons change. Fulham Massage (2021) cited in
Autumn is coming: benefits of massage therapy when seasons change (fulham-massage.com) accessed 22.09.23
Fall Equinox marks a period of rest and healing as we spend more time in darkness. Bain, E(2023)
Anatomy of the Vagus Nerve.. Fogoros, R, N MD (2023) cited in
https://www.verywellhealth.com/vagus-nerve-anatomy-1746123 Accessed(22.09.2023)
