Planning to minimize physical and mental stress

Any transition, positive or negative, can be a stressor. Switching from your work routine to your vacation schedule can therefore be considered a stressful time. And that is without even mentioning, that the workload you have to accomplish before your vacation alone, can prove to be a considerable stressor in itself! According to Sonia Lupien, a neuroscientist and director of the Centre for Human Stress Studies, we should take a few days between intense work and vacation to allow our bodies to make a healthy transition. In doing so, we would increase our chances of reducing our stress related reactions. So why not take a moment to slow down and help your body to make that transition? You may be more relaxed and willing to deal with unexpected situations, disagreements and other factors that may stress you out during your outings.

Choosing massage therapy for a relaxing transition

In addition to its numerous benefits, massage therapy also plays an important role in reducing the effects of stress on the body. A massage stimulates the production of endorphins, a hormone released by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus, which acts as an analgesic on the body while providing a feeling of well-being. During a stressful moment, the body produces adrenaline and cortisol hormones. Endorphins help to counterbalance the accumulation of these stress-related hormones; as a result, they reduce their effects on the physical and mental health.

To enjoy the benefits of a massage to the fullest

The benefits of a massage to help you prepare for your vacation are numerous: they include the improvement of sleep quality, the stimulation of the immune system and the calming of the nervous system.

Take full advantage of the massage benefits throughout your vacation with these tips:

• Drink plenty of water before and after the massage;
• Exercise in the following days to keep the body active and moving;
• Breathe deep into your abdomen to calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety.

By Patricia Shankland, from the association Mon Réseau Plus | monreseauplus.com

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