Reduce Anxiety with Massage

It’s no secret that our daily lives can dictate our mood. Just as getting a promotion or planning a vacation can put a smile on our faces for days on end, things like workplace deadlines, family troubles, and financial worries can have a negative effect on our psychological well-being.

By now, most of us have come to know just how connected the mind and body truly are. So it should come as no surprise that sustaining a poor mood can lead to much more than a grumpy expression. Gloomy or defeatist emotions can manifest themselves in a myriad of ways, including weight gain, skin conditions, and even serious illnesses.

For those of you who love to treat themselves to a massage, we’ve got good news for you. Not only does your massage ease tense muscles and boost relaxation, but you can reduce anxiety with massage, lifting your mood in a way that permeates your body.

First and foremost, there’s human touch. Countless studies have examined the benefits of touch, both as it relates to our development as children and how it affects our sense of the world as adults. Simple touch on a regular basis has been shown to lower blood pressure and increase the “feel-good” hormone, oxytocin — both of which lead to a more optimistic attitude.

Massage itself is like doubling down on this human touch. “Many studies show that massage therapy reduces negative mood states like depression, anxiety, and anger,” says Dr. Tiffany Field of the Touch Research Institute. “Massage therapy can improve a person’s emotional health by reducing stress and stress hormones; by increasing serotonin and thereby depression and pain; and by enhancing immune function and thereby reducing bacterial and viral illnesses.” In fact, a review of more than a dozen studies conducted by the Institute found that harmful levels of cortisol were reduced by up to 53 percent following a massage.

Another benefit people might not think about is the increase in self-awareness. Because of the speed at which many of us live our lives, we rarely stop to examine how our bodies are responding to everyday stress. “Massage treatments give us a time-out in order for us to access the deeper layers of our well-being,” says massage therapist Kristen Sykora. “Just as we take our cars in for regular tune-ups, we too need maintenance.”

While massages are certainly enjoyable, they shouldn’t be viewed as an indulgence. Instead, they should be seen as yet another tool we can use to keep ourselves in the best physical and mental health possible.

5 Reasons a Sports Massage Could Take Your Game To the Next Level

Sports massage has been used by professional athletes for decades as a form of legitimate physical therapy that addresses the other side of training. This side is typically concerned with maintenance, increased range of motion, injury prevention, muscle tension and fatigue. Yet, it isn’t quite a day at the spa; sports massage helps you become a better, healthier athlete and promotes long-term development.

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7 Exercises that are Perfect with Your Weekly Massage

Search for articles across the internet and you’ll find many recommending a massage after exercise. From men’s fitness magazines to women’s health sites to hardcore workout junkies, the word is spreading fast. And there’s really no other way to put it: for even a moderately active lifestyle, a regular massage can make a huge difference. But what about pairing dedicated exercises with your weekly massage?

While just about any exercise can be matched up well with a massage, our experts at Dreamclinic massage therapy in Seattle wanted to give you something a bit more detailed. So we put together a list of ones we recommend for a variety of reasons. In this list of 7, you’ll find super simple exercises that are excellent even for beginners, as well as ones that can really give you a run for your money.

Step-ups with Knee Raise

One of the reasons we chose this exercise is for its versatility and its multiple benefits. While you work your abs, hamstrings, quads, and hip flexors, you can build strength, stability, and stamina. The best part is that this exercise can be modified a number of different ways to further improve your range of motion and your core.

Standing Calf Stretch

This stretching exercise is easy enough to perform, but gives your soleus, one of the main calf muscles, a decent stretch. It can aid in dealing with issues like Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis. Paired with a regular massage after exercise, and this one is especially perfect for joggers and runners.

Speed Jump Roping

Although you can start off at your own pace, speed jump roping is one exercise that’s being added to more workout schedules. This is because, when added to a well-chosen diet and a regular massage, this exercise can do wonders for your health. And all you’ll need is a simple jump rope and some space.

Planks

Because a regular massage is ideal for improving range of motion, decreasing back pain from sitting too long, and helping your posture, we love to recommend adding planks to the mix. As a core exercise, it works out several areas of your body at once and improves balance and flexibility. One of the best parts is that it can also offer a mind-blowing challenge that can leave you pumped up and feeling confident. Once you’ve added a massage after exercise with planks, you have yourself a winning combination.

Squats

Another outstanding exercise with a lot of versatility, the squat provides a whole-body workout with a focus on mobility and balance. When you combine them with a weekly massage, we’re talking about a whole new fitness level that just about anyone can enjoy.

Deadlift

This one isn’t just for powerlifters who are addicted to the gym. In reality, deadlifts can be done with a much lighter weight than you may have seen on TV. And because it works an enormous amount of your body’s muscles, it’s incredible at getting you fit in a hurry. Be sure to pair up with an expert who can help you with form, but also be sure not to overdo this one before you get a massage after exercise.

The Bridge Pose

Let’s finish up with a simple, approachable exercise that can really make a difference, especially if you’re suffering from lower back pain. This yoga move focuses on extending out your spine, even as it allows you to stretch your chest. When you come for your next massage session, we’ll discuss whether this move is right for you if you’re experiencing back pain, but the fact remains: lots of yoga poses paired with a massage can make a world of a difference for many.

Have questions about which exercises are right for you before your next massage session? Talk to one of our experts at Dreamclinic for massage therapy in Seattle and the surrounding area.

7 Health Myths We Need to Forget About

When we’re talking about health, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish the fiction from the facts. In fact, when you turn on the TV or turn to the Internet, you might have discovered something. There’s almost no end to so-called gurus and sages prompting this exercise routine or that health fad. There’s also plenty of health myths being passed around as well.

But with your trusted experts at Dreamclinic, you always have a source of medical advice that’s reliable and informed. On that note, today, we’re cutting through the fiction and dispelling 7 health myths that we all should just forget about.

Health Myth #1: You must drink 8 glasses of water every day

While it’s incredibly important to stay hydrated, especially if you lead an active lifestyle, the 8 glasses rule is just a myth. Now, it’s good to drink plenty of water each day, but for every person the amount will differ. No research supports a link between exactly 8 glasses and a healthy life.

Health Myth #2: Crunches are all you need to get flat abs

On the one hand, crunches won’t necessarily lead to an unhealthy lifestyle. However, in addition to a well-rounded circuit of whole-body exercises, you also need a diet that’s geared toward being fit. This way, you can get those abs you’ve always wanted.

Health Myth #3: Your metabolism is at fault for weight gain

You’ve probably heard this one once or twice in the past. However, research has continued to show that, in the far majority of cases, it’s not metabolism that’s causing weight gain. In reality, regular physical activity has far more impact on your weight due to calorie burning.

Health Myth #4: Foods high in fat are bad for you

Once upon a time, a trend started where people insisted that fatty foods were bad for you. And although you don’t want to go crazy and eat nothing but fatty foods, the fact of the matter is fat isn’t bad for you. It might sound crazy, but your body needs some fat for essential health. Avocados, olives, nuts. These all provide basic building blocks that your body needs when part of a balanced diet.

Health Myth #5: You should wait an hour after eating before physical activity

This persistent wives’ tale sounds like it has its foundation in science, but really, it’s simply another myth. There isn’t any research backing up claims that your body is too busy digesting for you to be able to properly exercise. Now, you might want to hold off if you’ve had a large meal, but otherwise, enjoy your favorite physical activity.

Health Myth #6: You can’t grow new brain cells

This is probably one of the most stubborn myths of all. Yet, until recently, it was all but accepted as fact. However, new research is blowing this old idea apart. The process, called neurogenesis, leads to learning and memory. How can you take advantage of it? More aerobic exercise is one big key.

Health Myth #7: A professional massage is just for a luxury

At Dreamclinic, our professionals in massage know a thing or two about this one! Really, a massage session can serve a variety of medical and health goals. These include helping you to alleviate long-term pain, de-stressing after a tough week, or even managing cancer treatments. Are you ready to find out more about how a massage can benefit your health? Give us a call, and we’ll be happy to answer all your questions!

 

Dealing with Headaches and Migraines, Advice to Alleviate Your Symptoms

Whether you’re suffering from a headache due to worry or maybe you deal with regular migraines, it’s hard to deny that one fact remains the same…. the intense sensation can make you feel like you have to put your life on hold. In fact, if you’re one of the 38 million people in the United States who suffer from migraines, you know that they can last hours or even days. They can even become chronic in nature.

While migraines differ in important ways from a typical headache, both can be challenging to deal with for just about anyone. From throbbing to sensitivity to sound and even nausea and lightheadedness, the symptoms can seem overwhelming at times. Yet, there are a number of ways you can decrease their frequency and duration, if not eliminate them almost completely from your life.

Check Your Diet for Triggers

For some sufferers of headaches and migraines, food may be playing a role. In addition to evidence that certain foods may act as triggers, many people have reported that keeping a food diary to pinpoint foods that may be problematic. These include dairy, avocado, citrus, meats with nitrates, red wine, as well as peanut butter and pickled foods.

Minimizing Inflammation

Equally true, the severity of your headaches or migraines could be a result of a vitamin or mineral deficiency that causes inflammation. There’s evidence, for example, that getting additional Omega-3 in a healthy diet can drastically decrease the intensity of headaches and migraines.

Turn Off the Lights and the Noise

While many migraine sufferers may already know this trick, it’s worth repeating for everyone. When you have even a regular headache, bright lights or loud noises can prolong it greatly.

Vary the Temperature Somewhat

On the other hand, slight changes in temperature can act as a soothing mechanism for headaches and migraines. Next time you feel one coming on, adjust the temperature in your home a bit. Or you could also try taking a warm or cold towel and pressing it to your forehead or neck. There’s no surefire way to know if you should use a little warmth or some cold, but try each one to find out what works best for you.

Establish a Regular Sleep Schedule

Another method to help alleviate the symptoms associated with headaches and migraines is to monitor your sleep better. With many Americans experiencing irregular sleep, you can imagine how this can turn a mild headache into a much worse one. Take time to establish a regular sleep schedule where you’re getting a higher quality of sleep throughout the night.

Avoid Any Alcohol

There’s also evidence that alcohol can significantly increase the symptoms of a headache or migraine. Because of this reason, it’s best to avoid alcoholic beverages if you even get the sense that you have a headache or migraine coming on.

See Your Doctor

If you’re experiencing headaches on a more frequent basis or they’re more intense than usual, it’s probably a good idea to consult with your doctor. Although they’re often not life-threatening, chronic headaches can become an issue for many people, and your doctor can help you explore additional options.

Enjoy a Relaxing Massage

Whether you get a massage in Seattle or the surrounding area, the staff at Dream Clinic can tell you firsthand how a massage can do wonders for regular headaches. And a massage session has been shown to be a prime way to alleviate symptoms of a headache or migraine.

If you have a question about how a massage at Dream Clinic can help with your headaches, give us a call. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to provide additional information and schedule an appointment for you.

 

 

 

Top Facts about Massage Therapy for Your Health

Over the years, more and more, people are realizing the therapeutic benefits of massage therapy. And as the scientific community looks further into the art of massage, researchers are discovering numerous positive effects for your body. This impact can even go beyond what you might have imagined, transforming your week and even your entire month. long after your massage session is over. Today, we’ll discover the facts behind just how massage therapy can improve your health and your life.

Massage can reduce symptoms associated with depression and anxiety

In the United States alone, millions of people suffer from some form of depression or anxiety disorder. Yet, research has continued to show that massage therapy can help bring down anxiety levels while alleviating poor mood.

Massage is also beneficial for mitigating stress

In today’s modern world, regular stress is a fact of life for many of us. And one of the primary chemicals in your body responsible for that stress is cortisol. But research has shown that a massage decreases its presence in the body by a large percent on average.

Massage is given to world-class athletes throughout the world

There’s even a wealth of research that indicates how massage therapy is great for those of us who live fit lifestyles. Olympic athletes have even used massage therapy to improve their performance! If you’re a participant in a sport or other activity, a regular massage may be a great addition to your week.

Massage can mitigate lower back pain caused by too much sitting

Still, another part of modern life involves lots of sitting… and lots of back pain. In fact, millions of Americans also suffer from some form of back pain. But a massage can help remove that pain for many people suffering from this issue.

Massage decreases the frequency and intensity of headaches

If you suffer from migraines or other types of headaches, you know how much they can disrupt your life. However, after adding a regular massage to a patient’s life, many people report a significant improvement in their condition.

Massage reduces heart rate and lowers blood pressure

You may even be shocked to discover that some types ofmassage have been shown to help with heart health. For a number of individuals, this is welcome news, and a regular massage, along with a proper diet and fit lifestyle, could mean huge health benefits.

Massage has positive benefits for your immune system

While the role of massage therapy in immune system function is still being studied, the initial research shows promise. There is clearly a host of changes that occur throughout your body during a massage session, all of which can be positive for many lifestyles.

Massage can improve your sleep

With insomnia also playing a factor in many Americans’ lives, it’s also worth looking at how massage can help you with your sleep schedule. For many of us, this can be the difference between a week where we’re on top of what we need to get done or not.

In addition to massage, Dream Clinic offers a wide range of services to ensure you’re healthy and fit. Take a look at what we can offer you next time you visit us!

Massage and Proper Sleep Habits Go Hand-in-Hand, Here’s How…

At first glance, you might imagine that sleep and a professionally-administered massage aren’t all that related. However, in reality, both of these two are essential to a more healthy and fit life. In fact, you may be surprised to discover that research has shown there’s even a direct link between the two. In fact, sleep and massage, when paired together regularly, have the power to transform your life for the better. And when you see how well they can improve your month, you’re going to be astonished.

The Importance of Sleep

First, let’s understand more about how proper sleep habits go beyond just feeling better in the morning. With millions of people throughout the country experiencing poor sleep on a regular basis, the situation is actually quite serious. For these people, their memory is impacted, they’re more likely to get sick, and they’re also more likely to suffer from illnesses like depression. Still, we all probably know how stressful it can be when we don’t get a decent night’s sleep. At the same time, however, the quality of your sleep is also incredibly important. If you’re unable to reach the deeper levels of sleep during the night, your body suffers the consequences quickly.

3 Ways that Massage Leads to Better Sleep and Lower Stress

Since sleep is so vital to our health, we would be wise to pay extra attention to, not just the amount of sleep we’re getting, but the quality of sleep too. That’s where massage comes in as the perfect addition to your regular sleep schedule. Once you pair these two up, you’ll find that the effects create a strong reinforcing cycle of benefits.

  • Increased relaxation throughout your week

You’ve probably had a night or two where you tossed and turn and sleep would just never come. But when you’ve had a professionally administered massage, you’ll find that you’re more relaxed and able to put the day’s worries behind you. With this, you’ll find that you’re able to fall asleep faster and enjoy a deeper sleep than before. In turn, your next massage will be even more relaxing.

  • Minimized pain from a variety of ailments

Whether you’ve overexerted yourself during sports or you’re suffering from a long-term ailment, massage sessions are a proven way to help alleviate your pain. Research has even confirmed that it can be a positive aid in pain management. Because pain of any level, even minor aches, can prevent a good night’s sleep, a regular weekly or monthly massage can drastically improve your sleep. This holds true if you also get headaches, aches from arthritis, and more.

  • Less reliance on caffeine

One more essential benefit to pairing massage and sleep is that you’re likely to find that you don’t need that extra cup of coffee each day. Now, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying coffee or other caffeinated beverages in moderation. But with more and more Americans turning to caffeine throughout their day, they’re also finding it harder and harder to get to sleep at night. Additionally, excessive caffeine use can throw your diet out of whack, leading to even more issues. Yet, with a professionally administered massage, you not only feel more relaxed, you’ll also feel more refreshed at the same time. This positive energy is a huge benefit to just about everyone.

Having difficulty sleeping at night? Talk with one of our massage experts about scheduling your own massage session and discover just how much a session can improve your life right away.

Ask a Massage Expert! Answers To Your Top Questions

If you’re considering a massage, in Seattle or anywhere else in the country, you may have some questions about what to expect during your first visit. Of course, this is perfectly natural. After all, while you may have heard from friends what a massage is like, you’re about to experience it for yourself. And you may want to have a better understanding of how your session will go when you arrive.

Not to worry.  The massage experts at Dreamclinic are here to answer your questions. Our professionally trained staff is always happy to provide you with guidance when it comes to your health and massage, in Seattle or beyond. And today, we’re answering some of your top questions!

What should I wear when I get a massage?

You should dress as you normally do and in what is most comfortable for you. Our staff recommends dressing down, and for many patients, a pair of shorts works well, along with a t-shirt. Once you have had a massage, your relaxed body will appreciate a comfort-oriented approach to your wardrobe.

Are there any risks associated with getting a massage?

While massage therapy is known to be an extremely safe activity, patients should be aware of a few considerations before beginning. If you have concerns or known medical conditions, it’s best to talk with your doctor to make sure massage is medically safe for you.

Should I feel sore after my massage session?

Especially if you’re getting a deeper tissue massage, it’s normal to feel a little soreness the next day after your massage. In fact, that soreness is likely a result of the positive effect of your massage. Increase your fluids to assist your lymphatic system and decrease soreness.

Is a massage more about the experience or the medicine?

The answer is: both! Massage therapy is as much as a science as it is an art. In addition to being enjoyable and relaxing, massage therapy does  also offer numerous health benefits.

Can a massage help me with my active lifestyle?

Yes! For those of you who live an active life, massage can offer even more benefits. That’s because active people tend to pick up dings and stress to their muscles and need more regular maintenance. When you arrive for your  Dreamclinic massage, please feel free to bring up how massage can benefit you regarding the specific activities you engage in.

What licensures exist in the United States for massage?

In the United States, each state has its own regulation that pertain to massage therapy. For our massage team in Seattle, our  excellent team of professionals are licensed with over 750 hours of training.

Does my health insurance plan cover massage sessions?

In some cases, insurance plans may cover your massage therapy. This is especially true if your general doctor or specialist has referred you for massage therapy. However, every insurance plan is different. Best practice is to check your specific plan for benefits pertaining to massage. Also if you have been in a car accident, your auto insurance should cover massage.

Does Dreamclinic offer office-based sessions in Seattle?

Yes! We’re proud to offer workplace massage, onsite sessions for your office or corporate events.

Can I customize my massage session at Dreamclinic?

One of the most important aspects of getting a massage is discussion your goals for the session with your therapist before the massage begins. Before your first session, talk to one of our trained staff about what is right for you.

Ready to get your first massage at one of our Seattle area locations? Get in touch with us!

 

6 Health Food Blogs for Almost Any Diet

At Dreamclinic, in addition to being your trusted source for massage and Acupuncture in Greater Seattle, we also like to share with you information on living a healthy and fit lifestyle. Whether you’re a teenager or a retiree, man or woman, one fact remains the same: you need quality insight that will help you make your health decisions. At the same time, we know you also want to keep up with the latest in trends and research from the medical industry. This is true whether we’re talking about finding a trusted massage therapist, a new exercise for your active schedule, or even, like today, discovering health food blogs.

Now, more than ever, it seems like there are some great resources on the Internet that let you tap into an entire health community. Of course, our health professionals here at Dreamclinic are happy to share all of this essential advice and the reliable online resources we recommend. After you’ve gotten an invigorating massage at our clinic, you also want to maintain a healthy diet as well. So, from vegetarians to food connoisseurs, this is your list of must-read health food blogs to check out when you’re dining in.

My New Roots

This health food blog is jam-packed with some seriously good recipes. It also helps that the blogger is a Certified Nutritional Practitioner. That means you’re not just getting another recipe or food idea. In fact, you’re getting meals founded on good eating. While this blog isn’t solely vegetarian, there’s a focus on staying plant based most the time.

Naturally Ella

Speaking of vegetarian eating, here is a blog that hits that spot. If you’re into the veggie lifestyle, you’re going to love this one. It has information on how to best stock your pantry, an area to explore ingredients, and so much more. The recipes? Absolutely tasty with a focus on flavorful and fit.

Skinnytaste

This one is as straightforward as it gets: regular meal ideas that are low fat and healthy, but also friendly for the family. In addition to good tasting meals, you’ll also discover that the blog is centered around seasonal eating and best of all, portion control, but with big flavor.

Nutrition Stripped

Run by a Dietitian Nutritionist, this health food blog definitely has a good diet in mind. With articles on subjects like eating well while traveling and practical workout tips, it has a little bit of everything you’ll need.

Nutrition Unplugged

And when it comes to getting into nutrition, it doesn’t get any better than this health food blog. If you’re in search of a source that really dives into the world of food science, this might be right up your alley. A little more in depth, but very interesting, it’s one you can get lost at very easily.

Nom Nom Paleo

Let’s finish this list off with a fun one that takes its inspiration from a popular diet right now: the paleo diet. This health food blog has some really creative ways to enjoy this lifestyle, even as you stay fit in the process. The blog is an excellent resource, but also a lot of fun.

Once you’ve chosen one of these health food blogs or even a few of them, check out the health-minded services we provide at Dreamclinic. They go perfect with any diet!

 

Depression and Diet: Could What You Eat be a Big Factor?

For decades, researchers have been trying to pin down the exact causes and factors involved in Depression. According to the National Institute of Mental Health in the United States, over 350 million people worldwide are battling this health issue in their personal lives. Over the years, countless studies have attempted to address the effectiveness of treatment, while others focused on the possible biological basis. Because Depression can be such a serious challenge for those who have it, any new research that can shed light on it is welcome news to both the health community and the general public. And just this year, researchers have uncovered a significant connection between Depression and diet that could rock the healthcare world.

How One Study is Changing How We View Depression and Diet

Experts at Deakin University in Australia have published new results in the medical journal BMC Medicine that are sure to change many people’s lives. In essence, the scientific study has shown that there may be a strong association between Depression and diet that researchers may have been overlooking. During the study, patients with Depression were given guidance on how to better choose their regular diet and with a foundation of healthier choices. The results? Patients that more closely followed the dietary recommendations showed dramatic impact on their symptoms.

Comparing This News to the Classic View of Depression

Through history, the views on Depression have shifted and changed with time. Not until the early 1900s did professionals formulate that it could be a result of something other than a patient’s external situation. As the decades went on, researchers used various methods, from cognitive-behavioral therapy to antidepressant medication, to help patients manage their symptoms in everyday life. Still, because diet was less of a focus, it’s unclear if those methods were having their maximum effect.

Why this Study is so Important Today

While some meta-study data indicated that there might be a link between Depression and diet, this study is the first of its kind. In reality, it represents a major breakthrough in how we understand Depression. Because it was also a rigorous scientific study, it has the backing of the scientific community and offers a good first indication of where new methods of treatment might come from. This very well could mean a healthier and happier life for anyone who is or has been suffering from Depression at any point in their life.

Next Steps if You Suffer from Depression

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of Depression, you’ll want your first step to be seeking the support of a professional. Since each person’s situation is different, relying on their expertise to help you with any signs of Depression is a must from the start. In addition, you can also discuss with them some of the dietary changes suggested in the Deakin University study. These include focusing on a diet composed of:

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Legumes and nuts
  • Leaner red meats
  • Fresh fish
  • Olive oil

In addition, the research indicated that you may want to avoid some of the following if you’re considering Depression and diet:

  • Sweet snack foods
  • Fried foods
  • Refined cereals
  • Fast-food meals
  • Meat that’s been processed
  • Sugary drinks

As always, our professional staff here at Dreamclinic will continue to follow the news regarding this subject, as well as other medically-relevant news. This way, you have a trusted source for your health-related needs and updates.