Most people over the age of 30 have probably experienced some whisper of it- waking up with inexplicable joint or muscle pain that wasn’t there yesterday; forgetting why you walked into the kitchen; realizing you don’t have quite the same dexterity and strength that you did in your 20s. All signs of the natural process of aging.
The human body and mind are in a constant state of change. Peak physical and mental condition occurs around age 30. After that, the body’s major systems of function begin a gentle decline. Specifically the cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, digestive, integumentary, and nervous systems all begin to slow and operate at a progressively diminished capacity. The level and speed at which this occurs vary greatly depending on a number of factors including general health, fitness, nutrition, lifestyle, and genetics. We can slow the negative effects of aging through regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress reduction, adequate sleep, and social engagement. Massage and bodywork can help complement a healthy lifestyle in tempering some of the symptoms of aging.
It’s no surprise that engaging in regular physical activity is vital for longevity and quality of life. A combination of cardiorespiratory and strength training will help increase blood and oxygen circulation, reduce the natural loss of muscle and bone mass that occurs as we age, and challenge the nervous system to keep it firing efficiently. Exercise helps us develop and maintain strength and flexibility in our muscles and joints, improves coordination and balance, increases energy, promotes better sleep, and elevates the mood. But what happens if you are in too much pain to exercise? Or your range of motion is limited and you can’t move like you used to?
Massage and bodywork can help to overcome obstacles to longevity and health, and can provide comfort and support for those with diminished capacity in later years. Regular bodywork like manual massage, myofascial release, cupping therapy, assisted stretching, reflexology, and heat application can address chronic muscle, joint, and nerve pain, limited range of motion, and poor circulation. By addressing these limiting factors, you can get back to your exercise routine, your activities of daily life, and continue to enjoy a full life. Symptoms for specific conditions like osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s Disease, and dementia can sometimes be alleviated with therapeutic massage. Even if it is simply the comfort of gentle touch and human connection being provided, it can boost a loved one’s quality of life in later years.
When looking for a therapist for yourself or a loved one, make sure it’s not a one-size-fits-all establishment. We all have specific needs that can vary from one session to the next- especially as we age- and it is important that your therapist conducts a thorough intake to learn about you: your medical history, conditions, medications, goals, and comfort level. The right therapist will ask questions and may even request physician approval before booking a session for you or your loved one depending on possible contraindications. They will hold your/your loved one’s health, wellness, and safety at top priority.
Aging is inevitable, but aging with grace and health is achievable. By eating right, developing strong social ties, staying active, and incorporating bodywork from the right therapist, you can increase your chances of living a longer, fuller life.
Checkout the service menu to learn more about Bodywork by Design. You can also learn more about Gabriela here. If you’re ready to book, you can easily do so right on the booking page.
References
Durand, Marcella. “Massage Therapy for Seniors.” Massage Therapy Journal, Fall 2020, pp 24-30.
Osborn, Karrie. “When All Is Forgotten.” Massage & Bodywork Magazine, January/February 2023, pp 33-37.
Shryer, Donna. “Massage Therapy May Help Your Clients Stay Active and Engaged as They Age.” Massage Therapy Journal, Summer 2019, pp 34-43.
Williams, LMT, Cindy. Massagetherapy.com “Caring for Our Elders Through Touch.” https://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/caring-our-elders-through-touch Accessed 3 August 2024.
Massage Therapy Journal. “Massage and the Aging Body,” February, 2011 https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/massage-for-aging-bodies/ Accessed 3 August 2024.
Massage Therapy Journal. “Massage for Seniors: What the Research Says,” February, 2011 https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/massage-research-seniors/ Accessed 3 August 2024.