Massage is just a part of staying healthy and happy. Because we care about the whole person, we’ve included some quick, useful information for you to think about as you balance work, recreation, and family.

Lower your blood pressure
The pine-bark extract Pycnogenol, taken in doses ranging from 25 to 200 milligrams, may help lower high blood pressure and reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol, suggests a research review from Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine. [from Natural Health, June 2004, pg. 18]

Does your jaw clench tight?
You might have TMJ if you experience these symptoms on a constant or frequently recurring basis: headaches without cause; pain around and in the jaw; problem opening and closing the mouth; popping or clicking noise in your jaw; face, sinus and/or neck pain; clenched teeth during sleep; tired, sore jaw upon waking. If you suspect TMJ, consult your massage therapist, chiropractor or primary care physician for additional information.

Breathing right could save your life
Breathing incorrectly for three minutes is enough to lower the amount of oxygen to the brain and heart by 30%. If this goes on for years, there’s an increased risk for conditions ranging from chronic headaches to heart disease. So take a deep breath and see our office for a copy of “Breathing for Life: Are we suffocating ourselves?” in Body Sense, Fall 2002, pg. 10.

Weekend headaches?
Are you one of those always plagued with headaches, fatigue, nausea, and muscle aches on Saturday and Sunday? According to Consumer Reports on Health, you might have what’s currently being called “leisure sickness,” and according to researcher you might also be a perfectionist. Why the correlation? Studies indicate that employees with heavy loads who feel exceptionally responsible for their work are more likely to have these symptoms on their days off. It’s often an inability to make the transition between work and rest that causes the problems. One suggestion: exercise on Friday evenings to make the transition. Even better, schedule a massage! [from Body Sense Fall 2002]

We knew water was good, but check this out—
No doubt your massage therapist reminds you on a constant basis to “drink your water,” especially after a massage. Now studies indicate hydration can help ward off heart disease, too. According to a study by the American Journal of Epidemiology, women who drank five or more 8-ounce glasses of water each day were 41% less likely to have a fatal heart attack then those who drank two or fewer glasses of water per day. The number was even higher for men—54%. Researchers say the connection is apparent: dehydration tends to thicken blood, thereby increasing the chance of a blood clot triggering a heart attack. It advises that people with congestive heart failure or kidney problems consult their physician on fluid intake. [from Body Sense Fall 2002]

Eat breakfast, avoid illness
A recent study from Cardiff University in Wales links a weakened immune system to skipping breakfast. For 10 weeks, 100 participants were asked to keep a diary regarding illnesses; they were also questioned about their lifestyles. Most interestingly, those who became sick during this time reported they were less likely to eat breakfast. [from Body Sense Fall 2002]