ME Magazine Winter 2007

Q and Ahhh

Massage Envy experts answer your questions

Q: Can getting a massage help me sleep better? A: You bet it can! Massage therapy leads to a feeling of relaxation and calm, and clients often report a sense of clarity and perspective. Not only does massage therapy feel good physically, but it also seems to hit a mental "reset button," leading to clearer thoughts and enhanced sleep.

Massage therapy can also manage two common sleep stealers: stress and pain. (See "On the Inside," page 10.) Massage therapy tackles stress on the physical level by easing muscle tightness, and on the biochemical level by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol and prompting the release of endorphins, which make us feel good.

Massage therapy has also been shown to mediate pain, which is very good news for people living with fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis or even cancer. The pain-lessening benefits of regular massage therapy lead to better sleep. Better sleep will ultimately give your body time to restore and heal.

-C.G. Funk, Licensed Massage Therapist and Vice President of Industry Relations and Product Development for Massage Envy

Do you have a question about massage therapy for our experts? Contact info@MassagEnvy.com. Type "Ask CG" in the subject line.

Back-Friendly Baggage Handling

Lugging your luggage around the airport is much easier now that roller bags are the norm, but lifting that bulging bag into the overhead bin can be a nightmare for many people. While checking your bag or traveling light is the best option for those who suffer from back pain, proper lifting also can help you avoid injury. Experts recommend lifting the luggage in stages: first up onto the seat, then into the bin. Remember to keep your stomach muscles tight and to lift with your legs as much as possible.

Thank you