From pressures at work to family demand or health issues, stress comes at us from many directions. Beyond the mental drain, stress can also produce physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches and muscle tension, which make taking time to relax extremely important.

“According to a study by the American Institute of Stress, 77 percent of adults regularly suffer from the physical symptoms of stress, while 48 percent of people report that stress keeps them up at night,” says Eric Stephenson, Elements Massage’s Chief Wellness Officer. “In our increasingly fast-paced society where we are all connected to digital devices, it is vital that you disconnect regularly to re-center yourself.”

While most of us wish that we could escape to a tropical island and relax on a quiet and secluded beach, getting away from the daily grind is easier said than done. As a result, Stephenson has some easy tips to melt away stress and help you achieve your total Zen:

1. Go on a walk a few times a week.

2. Spend 30 minutes reading your favorite book.

3. Take a nap, even if it is only for a few minutes.

4. Meditate and take three deep breaths several times per day.

5. Express your emotions and release creativity by writing, drawing or painting.

6. Socialize with friends who make you laugh, which can help lower tension.

7. Sip a glass of wine or drink green tea (both of which have proven benefits).

8. Spend uninterrupted time playing with your kids and/or pets.

9. Take a group exercise class or set time aside to work out with a personal trainer.

10. Implement regular massage into your regular health and wellness regimen. 

“Research suggests that more than 90 percent of illness is worsened by stress alone. The good news is that a 60-minute massage can reduce pain and stress, leading to increased quality of life and a greater sense of wellbeing,” says Stephenson. “Most people think that massage therapy is just getting pampered, but in fact, the mental and physical benefits are immense. Massage helps boost your body’s ability to reduce pain, anxiety and even feelings of sadness.”

Elements Massage offers a variety of unique massage therapy services that promote relaxation. In 2017, Elements Massage was the first national massage franchise to introduce Himalayan Salt Stone Massage in all locations. For new clients, Stephenson recommends trying this service because it is a unique way to experience the benefits of heat therapy, which helps stimulate circulation, improve sleep and reduce inflammation.

Elements Massage also provides the AromaRitual™ service, which creates a personalized aromatherapy experience that stimulates your sense of smell. This is tied directly to the part of the brain that processes emotions and controls your heart rate, breathing and stress levels. Elements offers three exclusive scents called Energize, Refresh and Calm, available only in its studios.

Whether it’s taking a few minutes out of your day to decompress, or enjoying an hour-long massage, Elements Massage is committed to making relaxation accessible to everyone. To learn more tips or book a massage, visit: elementsmassage.com.

Source: Elements Massage - Photograph by Gangis Khan / Getty Images