Self-Care Challenge- Day 3: Self-Massage

Have you ever spent hours hunched over your keyboard only to suddenly feel a twinge in your neck? Then, to alleviate it, you reach up and give your neck a little squeeze? Hey! That’s self-massage!

Self-massage can be a great way to relieve tension, promote relaxation, and help with recovery after exercise. If you use a foam roller, you’re already doing self-massage. Using a prop like a foam roller is also known as self-administered myofascial release. Using your body weight on a foam roller is similar to the pressure that can be administered by a massage therapist.

Here are some links to tools I like to use when giving myself a massage. These are Amazon affiliate links. If you make a purchase through it, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Massage Lacrosse Balls for Myofascial Release

My absolute favorite is the hand massage tool from Gaiam. When I’m drawing for long hours or after playing an intense tennis match, this has given me so much relief.

The relief that is triggered during self-massage is similar to when we stretch. Endorphins are released and our parasympathetic nervous system is activated.

If you’re looking for a great starting point for self-massage, I suggest starting with a foot massage. You can use a tennis ball. We’re on our feet all day long and we ask a lot from our feet. I found this video that shows a great routine you can do that is quick and easy.

Disclaimer: Please be mindful when doing self-massage. Even if you’ve been using a foam roller for years, pay attention to your body. Don’t apply too much pressure or hold the prop against your body for too long. You can injure yourself. Also, if you have a new ache, numbness, or sensation, talk to a health professional before doing any self-massage.

BONUS: Some experts say that your muscles are more susceptible to hydration after a massage. So, drinking water after a massage can help boost your hydration and aid on recovery after moving around all that muscle tissue.

If you’re interested in more info about the self-care challenge, check it out here.

Thank you!

^{((Cover Photo: Photo by Chelsea shapouri on Unsplash))}