Massage is a wise self care strategy during the holiday season.

A 2004 study published in Circulation uncovered that during the holiday season there is a 5% increase of heart-related deaths. The increased strain on the heart during cold weather months combined with the emotional stress and overconsumption all may play a role in this spike of heart attacks during the winter holidays. Massage helps keep the heart healthy and balance circulation during the holiday season. It lowers blood pressure and helps support the heart.

A 2006 American Psychological Association study found that 61% of Americans feel stress during the winter holiday months. Massage helps the body perform better under stress. It can also reduce the amount of cortisol released into the body and increase levels of dopamine and serotonin. Massage is a great de-stressing solution, even thirty minutes can make a significant impact.

Muscular pain and tension can also spike this season. Cold temperatures can increase some joint problems and cause pain to be more intense during the winter months. Aches and pains may creep back in from stress and heavy work loads. Massage can help the body release and the muscles release. It can also increase the tissue temperatures decreasing pain and improving flexibility.

We all know we’re going to die but that sure doesn’t make it easier. As a massage therapist and hospice volunteer, I believe that we can offer care to dying people that inspires grace and peace throughout the process of dying. Here’s how:

Physical Comfort

Aches and pains come with old age and as the body grows older, pain can become more prevalent. Massage and energy work can help relieve pain and help someone feel relaxed. It can benefit circulation and swelling (edema).

Loving Touch

Often someone approaching the end of their life may experience touch mostly from medical professionals . There can be a lot of transferring, taking vitals, needles, bathing, and other procedural care. This care often lacks compassion due to overworked staff. Simple compassionate touch can benefit physical and mental well-being significantly. Simple hand holding, applying lotion to hands and feet, a gentle foot or head rub are examples of this kind of touch. Touch without trying to fix or change something. Touch that is loving and intentional. Touch that expresses love, and tells the receiver’s body that it is safe, that he/she is loved, and that you are there with them.

Healing Presence

“You are the medicine” is something I tell myself every time I walk into a client or patient’s room. I am not going in to change or fix something. I am going to hold space, to be with someone where they are, to love and see them completely. I am not there to do. I am there to be with. Be with whatever he/she is experiencing. I leave my plans, my drama, my stresses and excitements in the car.

Therapeutic Tough

Massage for Palliative and Hospice patients can help relieve pain and anxiety. It can offer support that medical staff and even family can’t always offer. This undivided attention can help calm the patient and reduce fear. Loving and present touch is an essential part of one’s care plan. Of course there are considerations that must be made for clients experiencing severe conditions and specific illnesses where touch may not be permitted. It’s important to be knowledgable about the precautions and contraindications.