Many of our patients come in routinely. Many of them don’t explicitly need massage as a physical therapy. They aren’t suffering from an acute injury. They don’t have chronic pain. In general, they’re in fairly good health. So, why do they seek out massage as a regular part of their schedule? Because they understand the importance of self-care and the influence it has on their health.
What is Self-Care?
Self care is a pretty beautiful concept which in recent years has sprung up as a buzzword for individuals in the wellness world.
One key aspect of effective self care is scheduling time to nourish the parts of yourself that may be suffering from imbalance or burnout. For some, this is a relaxing hike to clear the mind and exercise the body. For others, this could be as casual as treating yourself to a day of no obligations and just relaxing at home.
For many of our regular patients, they see massage as not only a physical aspect of their self care but also a very emotional, mental, and spiritual one. Massage as a form of emotional release and healing is widely recognized in the massage community and often taught at massage schools.
The belief that the tissues hold emotional pain and trauma is accepted in many religious circles as well – including the foundational concepts behind Thai Bodywork.
The goal of self care is to balance all these aspects of ourself along with our busy lives. Those who are successful in their self care practice understand the importance of scheduling “me-time” into their lives.
Is Self Care Selfish?
Some people may not think that they do not deserve to pamper themselves, take time for themselves, or put themselves first. They may feel that this makes them selfish.
It is important to note the distinction between self care and selfishness.
Selfishness is putting your wants over the needs of others.
Self care is putting the needs of yourself over the wants of others.
Don’t put other people in a bad position in order to care for yourself. In the same vein, do not allow other people to take advantage of you or restrict your ability to stay healthy. Again, the key is finding balance.
Massage as Good Medicine
Good Medicine’s foundation is to offer affordable massage and community acupuncture. Our goal is to help those in the Missoula area heal themselves through consistent self care. This often takes the form of treating long-ignored chronic pain, acute injuries, or sickness; however, it also involves helping people through emotional, spiritual, or physical trauma.
We believe in the value that self care brings to people’s lives and encourage our patients to stay dedicated to a care routine that nourishes their bodies and minds.
Ask yourself: When was the last time I scheduled time for myself? When was the last time I put myself first?
If you can’t answer that question, then it may be time to make time for you.
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