With the last few months being the most unsettling and unexpected we have ever experienced, it’s no surprise that many of us are feeling stressed, uptight and anxious. That can manifest itself in a range of physical symptoms including tight shoulders, headaches and stiff necks, to name just a few. A good massage is one way to help, but there are other benefits to a spa massage which may not be as obvious.

1. It counteracts all that sitting

If, since March’s lockdown, you have been working from home or home schooling, or even juggling both, then you will have spent a lot of time sat at a computer. And probably not at a smart ergonomically designed desk either!

All that sitting hunched over a laptop or squashed into a corner of the living room has wreaked havoc on your posture. Sitting for long periods shortens our hip flexors and weakens our gluteal muscles leading to back and head aches as well as a lack of flexibility. Numerous studies have shown that sitting for too long is bad for us so if that’s you, try and take breaks throughout the day to move about.

A massage can will help relax and lengthen muscles if  you are suffering from the general aches and pains too much sitting can cause. 

2. It can help anxiety and depression

The human touch can be incredibly therapeutic and relaxing, as long as it is wanted, safe and friendly. A professional spa therapist will be used to putting clients at ease and will ask all the right questions about how you would like your massage to feel. Sore muscles may respond better to a light touch whereas some areas can cope with a much more forceful approach.

Research shows that post massage clients report feeling happier, more relaxed and less anxious. Even a single massage treatment releases endorphins, the feel good hormones, into the bloodstream, helping to counteract depression and anxiety.

 3. It improves sleep

If you’ve been struggling to sleep during these unsettling times then a spa massage could really help. Not only are endorphins produced but the other natural relaxant, serotonin is generated during a massage. This later converts to melatonin which is what helps us switch off and sleep well at night. You may even find yourself nodding off during a massage. Spa therapists report this happens quite regularly because the whole experience is so calming and relaxing.

4. It boosts immunity

Numerous studies show that an hour’ s massage can actually increase your white blood cell count. White blood cells are all important in defending our bodies from disease so anything which helps boost them naturally has got to be a good thing. The BBC Trust Me I’m a Doctor programme tested this on healthy individuals and found a 70% increase in their white blood cells- an unexpected bonus of a single massage treatment.

Trying to carve out time for ourselves is never easy but it is so worth scheduling in some quality time to relax. A massage is a great way to do that and your body and mind will thank you for it.

The Aztec Spa offers a range of massage therapies and their team of professional friendly therapists will talk  you through what’s best for you and your body. Prices start from £33 for a Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage.

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Vicky Hinchliffe

Senior Marketing Executive at TLH Leisure Resort

I love gardening, wildlife and the great outdoors. I also have a passion for running and have completed 3 half marathons to date - with more planned. I try to live by the motto, 'be pretty on rest days' so when I'm not training I like nothing more than some pampering, high heels and lip gloss!
I've worked at TLH for longer than I care to dwell on but have seen so many changes it's been like working for 3 or 4 different companies! I am now in Marketing and am involved in spreading the word about how great TLH is!

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