You Can’t Overdose on Relaxation (and Why Massage is Your New Best Friend!)

Posted on by thespanerd

Hey Spa Nerds!

Let’s talk about something I hear a lot: “Can you get too much massage?” The short answer is a resounding NO! You can’t “overdose” on massage therapy. In fact, if you’re like the legendary Fred Astaire, who reportedly enjoyed a daily massage, you might just find it’s the secret to a happier, healthier you.

Here at Willow Day Spa in Evans, GA, we see firsthand the incredible benefits of regular massage. And we’re here to debunk the myth that there’s a limit to how much good it can do.

Why You Can’t “Overdose”

Unlike medications or even certain foods, massage doesn’t introduce substances into your body that can reach toxic levels. Instead, it works with your body’s natural systems to promote healing and relaxation.

Think of it like exercise for your muscles – you might feel sore after a particularly intense session, but that’s just your body responding to the work being done. With proper hydration and rest, you’ll feel better than ever.

The Amazing Benefits of Regular Massage

So, if you can’t overdose, what can you get from regular massage? A whole lot! Here are just a few of the incredible benefits:

  • Stress Reduction: Massage lowers cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and increases serotonin and dopamine (the happy hormones). This leads to a profound sense of relaxation and well-being.
  • Pain Relief: Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or just everyday aches and pains, massage can help release muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation.
  • Improved Circulation: Massage increases blood flow, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and organs, promoting healing and overall health.
  • Enhanced Immune Function: Studies have shown that massage can boost the immune system by increasing the activity of white blood cells.
  • Better Sleep: By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, massage can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.
  • Increased Flexibility and Range of Motion: Massage can help loosen tight muscles and improve joint mobility.
  • Mental Clarity and Focus: By calming the mind and body, massage can improve mental clarity and focus.

Finding Your Perfect Massage Schedule

While you can technically get a massage every day, finding the right schedule for you depends on your individual needs and lifestyle.

  • For general wellness: A monthly or bi-weekly massage is a great way to maintain your health and well-being.
  • For chronic pain or stress: Weekly or even twice-weekly massages may be beneficial.
  • For athletes: Regular massage can help prevent injuries and improve performance.

Willow Day Spa: Your Evans, GA Relaxation Destination

At Willow Day Spa, we’re passionate about helping our clients experience the transformative power of massage. Our skilled therapists are trained in a variety of techniques to address your specific needs.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing therapeutic massage, a deep tissue massage to release muscle tension, or a specialized treatment like warm shell or aromatherapy, we’ve got you covered.

We invite you to experience the Willow Day Spa difference. Book your appointment today and discover the benefits of regular massage for yourself!

Ready to relax?

Give us a call at 706-513-7977 visit our website at https://www.willowdayspaevans.com to schedule your appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve your wellness goals!

#WillowDaySpa #EvansGA #MassageTherapy #SpaNerd #Relaxation #Wellness #SelfCare #FredAstaire

Level Up Your Life: Why a Monthly Massage is Your Ultimate Buff

Posted on by thespanerd

Greetings, fellow humans! Are you feeling the digital drain? The existential dread of a stiff neck from staring at your code/spreadsheets/cat videos? Fear not, for Willow Day Spa is here to offer you a monthly quest reward: the glorious massage!

We all know the instant gratification of a good rubdown. But did you know that getting a massage once a month isn’t just a luxury, it’s a legitimate stat boost for your real-life RPG? Let’s dive into the glorious benefits, shall we?

1. Stress? Critical Hit!

Life throws curveballs like a rogue AI throwing glitches. Monthly massages are your anti-stress cheat code. They lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and boost serotonin and dopamine (the happy chemicals). Think of it as a mental health potion, restoring your HP and MP. You’ll be ready to tackle those deadlines like a seasoned raid leader.

2. Muscle Knots? Deactivated!

Whether you’re a coding ninja, a fitness fanatic, or just someone who spends too much time hunched over a desk, muscle tension is your nemesis. Regular massages target those pesky knots and tight spots, improving flexibility and range of motion. Imagine your muscles finally saying, “Ah, yes, this is the way!” instead of “Ouch, why do you hate me?”

3. Immune System: Increased Defense!

Did you know massages can give your immune system a power-up? Studies suggest regular massages can increase the activity of white blood cells, your body’s valiant defenders against illness. It’s like equipping your immune system with enchanted armor! Stay healthy and conquer your daily challenges.

4. Sleep: Restorative Buff Activated!

Struggling to get those precious Zzz’s? A monthly massage can be your sleep potion. By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, it helps regulate your sleep cycle. You’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready to face the day, like you’ve just leveled up after a long rest.

5. Pain Management: Debuffs Removed!

From chronic back pain to tension headaches, pain can be a persistent debuff. Monthly massages can provide significant pain relief by targeting the root cause of discomfort. It’s like finding a rare healing item that removes all negative status effects.

Why Willow Day Spa? Because We Speak Your Language!

At Willow Day Spa, we understand the importance of self-care in our fast-paced, tech-driven world. Our skilled therapists are like healers with magical hands, ready to restore your balance and vitality. We offer a variety of massage techniques tailored to your specific needs, whether you’re looking for deep tissue work or a relaxing Swedish massage.

So, ditch the stress, banish the pain, and boost your overall well-being with a monthly massage at Willow Day Spa. Your body and mind will thank you. Book your appointment today and unlock your full potential!

Level Up Your Life. Book Now!

https://booking.mangomint.com/304989?staffId=11

References:

Field, T. (2016). Massage therapy research review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 24, 19-31. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27052936/
Crane, J. D., Ogborn, D. I., Cupido, C., Melov, S., Hubbard, A., Bourgeois, J. M., & Tarnopolsky, M. A. (2012). Massage therapy attenuates inflammatory signaling after1 exercise-induced muscle damage. Science translational medicine, 4(119), 119ra13. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.3002882  
1.
elementsmassage.com
elementsmassage.com
Butcher, S. J., Grieve, R., & Ragatt, M. (2010). The effect of massage treatment on perceived quality of sleep. Journal of bodywork and movement therapies, 14(4), 422-429. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23217277/

https://booking.mangomint.com/304989?staffId=11
https://booking.mangomint.com/304989?staffId=11

Chill Out and Recover: The Spa Nerd’s Guide to Cold Therapy

Posted on by thespanerd


Hey Spa Nerds! We all know that blissful feeling after a massage, when your muscles are loose and your body feels rejuvenated. But what happens between those appointments? How do you keep those sore muscles and achy joints feeling good? Well, your favorite Spa Nerd is here to tell you about a simple, yet powerful tool: the cold pack!


The Cool Benefits of Cold Therapy
Cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy, is a fantastic way to manage pain and inflammation at home. Here’s how it works:
* Reduces Inflammation: When you injure a muscle or joint, your body’s natural response is inflammation, which causes pain and swelling. Cold therapy constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the area and minimizing inflammation.
* Numbs Pain: Cold can actually slow down nerve impulses, which helps to reduce pain signals traveling to your brain. It’s like a natural pain reliever!
* Decreases Muscle Spasms: Tight, spasming muscles can be a real pain. Cold therapy can help relax these muscles, providing relief.
* Speeds Up Recovery: By reducing inflammation and pain, cold therapy can help your body heal faster after exercise or injury.

When to Chill and When to Hold Back
While cold therapy is generally safe, there are some situations where you should avoid it:
* Open Wounds: Never apply cold directly to an open wound.
* Circulatory Issues: If you have poor circulation, cold therapy may further restrict blood flow and cause damage.
* Nerve Damage: People with nerve damage may have decreased sensitivity to cold and risk injury.
* Raynaud’s Syndrome: This condition causes blood vessels to overreact to cold, leading to pain and discoloration.
If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before starting any new treatment, including cold therapy.

The Spa Nerd’s Guide to Icing Like a Pro
Ready to give cold therapy a try? Here’s how to do it right:
* Wrap it Up: Never apply ice directly to your skin. Wrap your cold pack in a thin towel or cloth to protect your skin from frostbite.
* Time it Right: Apply the cold pack for 15-20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this several times a day, with at least 45-60 minutes between sessions.
* Listen to Your Body: If you experience any discomfort, such as increased pain, numbness, or tingling, remove the cold pack immediately.
Keep the Chill Going Between Massages
Incorporating cold therapy into your routine between massages can help you manage pain and inflammation, keeping your body feeling its best. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable way to support your overall wellness.
Remember, Spa Nerds, your body is your temple. Treat it with the care it deserves, and don’t forget to chill out every now and then!
References
* Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cryotherapy/about/pac-20395255
* Cleveland Clinic: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17705-cold-therapy

Mobile Massage Pricing and Policies

Posted on by thespanerd

Booking and Rates Policy


Hours Monday and Tuesday 8 am to 8 pm

All services are professional and strictly therapeutic.


Parking fees at hotels, offices and special events will apply.


Locations over 20 minutes of Evans Ga will require a trip charge of $20.00+ depending on location.

TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT:

Please email, text, or call to verify the rate for your location.

Thespanerdblog@gmail.com

Please allow 24 hours to receive a reply. Last-minute bookings are very uncommon. Please plan in advance and schedule your appointment a week or more in advance.

Be ready to start your session at the scheduled time. Have a space cleared that is about 9 by 6 feet.

Please respect my 24-hour cancellation policy. All cancellations under 24 hours will require payment in full. You may gift your timeslot to someone else if necessary. Payment in advance may be requested. Gift certificates are available.


massage therapy

Table Massage
$150+/ 60 mins
$220+/ 90 mins
$290+/ 120 mins
Customized sessions are 50, 80, and 110 minutes hands-on.

The additional 10 minutes is used for set up, disinfection, assessment, disrobing, dressing, disinfection, evaluation/notes, and breakdown.

Deep Tissue Massage
Sports Massage
Cupping Therapy
IASTM – Scraping
Prenatal Massage
Pediatric Massage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Swedish Massage                                      Warm shell Massage
Reflexology

See the menu above for the list of enhancements available for all massages.


*Price is per individual. Trip charge may be included if you are outside of travel area.


Chair Massage


$125+/ HOURLY
2 hours minimum
Client stays fully dressed for a 10, 15 or 20 minute session in a seated massage chair.
Available for Office & Corporate Events, Sporting & Concerts Backstage, Spa Day, Bridal Shower & Bachelorette Parties, Hotels & Yachts.
Backstage Chair Massage
Backstage Table Massage
Corporate Chair Massage
Corporate Table Massage


*Trip charge may be included if you are outside of travel area.


Facial massage


Facial Massage with Professional skincare Products depending on clients’ skin goals.
$150+/ HOURLY
Sessions are 50 minutes hands-on.

The additional 10 minutes is used for set up, disinfection, assessment, disrobing, dressing, disinfection, evaluation/notes, and breakdown.

A completely relaxing massage with Eminence products while cleansing the face. Hand, arm. leg and foot massage included.



*Price is per individual. Trip charge may be included if you are outside of travel area.


Featured Services


I offer therapeutic massage at your location and convenience with all my own equipment. All you are required to do is RELAX!

Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the foundation for other types of Western massage, including sports massage, and deep tissue massage.
massage therapy

Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is a technique that is more focused on deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia.

Sports Massage
Sports massage was developed to help athletes prepare for optimal performance, recover after an event, or to function well during training.

Prenatal Massage
Studies show that massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains.

Chair Massage
Chair massage is a style of seated massage that is typically short — 10 or 15 minutes — and focuses on your back, shoulders and neck and arms.

Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which a local suction is created on the skin; practitioners believe this mobilizes blood flow in order to promote healing.

Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a specialty massage where the therapist uses smooth, heated stones as an extension of their own hands, or by placing them on the body.

Foot Reflexology
Reflexology is the application of appropriate pressure to specific points and areas on the feet.

Good Posture hard to come by easy to learn.

Posted on by thespanerd

The Spa Industry is a very physical job and proper body mechanics can help prevent wear and tear on the body. One key part of body mechanics is good posture. Posture is something that doesn’t come naturally to most people. I have come across a neat device to help training your body to have good posture, this devices name is the Upright Go. I came across the device through social media as I’m always looking for the latest gadgets to share with clients, colleagues and followers.

massage-therapist-self-care

It’s a small and slim device that sticks to upper back. The adhesive strip didn’t irritate my skin and it comes with extra adhesive strips. The strips remind me of Command Strips that you use to attach hooks to wall. The strips come off easily when you want but stay on securely when you don’t. It comes with a small black case and a charger. See picture for example of the product.

upright-go-inset-1

Upright go monitors your vertical posture, are you leaning forward or hunching. It doesn’t monitor every aspect of your posture. But it does a good job of telling you when your slouching and offers a training mode. The training mode vibrates when ever you slouch. The vibration feels and sounds like a vibrating notification from your cell phone. Because of this I wouldn’t recommend doing training mode while giving treatment. As your client may think that you are on your cell phone while you are giving them a massage or facial.

Most massage schools go over body mechanics and how good posture can help you achieve a long career. The terms sky hook and earth hook are often used to describe how you should stand. The Upright go will help you with your sky hook or other terms keeping head up and shoulders back.

It was easy to set up. I charged the device, downloaded the app, sync the app and phone. Then I just stuck it on my back. That’s it.

GO_1_49fa0810-0c12-45a1-bdc6-dbeb002bfe72_1024x1024

At first, I hated the app because it showed me how bad my posture was. I slouched 80% of the time of day. I mean really? So, I wasn’t ready for such honesty. But I swallowed my pride and kept using it.

The first couple of days wearing the device the my upper back quickly became sore. Mainly because I was using muscles that had weakened from my poor posture. I ended up getting a massage and doing some stretching of the Trapezius, Pectoral, Rhomboids and all the various neck muscles. This helped to relieve the muscle soreness from the Upright Go. They recommend wearing it every day for a least a week. And then wearing it couple times a week to help keep you in habit of using good posture. I used everyday for three weeks. That is how long it took me to not think about sitting up straight up straight and for me to just do it on my own. I’m not perfect but it has been a huge help in relieving some of my back pain.

upright-go-review-2017-07

The app has two modes Training mode and tracking mode. Both are useful for resource. The data provided by app isn’t an exact science it won’t tell you if your hip is hiked up or if you are leaning more on foot or the other.

When in training mode, the Go will vibrate if you lean forward too much, lightly nudging you to straighten your back and correct your posture. The vibration never jolting just a gentle reminder to sit up straight. I would not recommend having it in training mode for long periods of time because it will drain your cellphone battery very quickly.

Tracking mode doesn’t change much. The thing just won’t vibrate if you hunch past the threshold. Whatever mode you’re in, the device still tracks the time spent straight or stooped, presenting them in colorful, accessible graphs and charts. The app provides all the product information you could want and even built-in chat to get at customer-support staff directly. The data isn’t perfect, but it is a good resource for helping to improve your health.

Upright-Go-mobile-app-screen-captre

The upright go website states the following “Poor posture can cause fatigue, all kinds of muscular pain and headaches. It can impact your gait, circulation, breathing and generally accelerate wear and tear on your body. Hunching over and putting pressure on your intestines can slow down your digestive system. It can also sap your energy levels, harm your mood and affect how other people perceive you.”

The device I found is not a quick fix it will take a minimum of a couple weeks to truly train your body to have good posture. You do have to commit to use it. Making sure you take it off and charge it at night. I forgot one night that I still had it on, the battery died and had to charge it the next day. Before I could do my training session. To be fair to myself I had busy schedule at spa that day and little sleep night before due to my toddler being sick most of the night.

I think the device would great for spa technicians, students and clients. Really anyone can use it. But being in the spa industry and having taught massage for a couple years. I could see this device being used in massage school to help reinforce good posture while learning the basics of good body mechanics. I could also see this device being sold by chiropractors, physical therapist and massage therapist to help with their client’s treatments for back problems. I believe the Upright Go really can be used for almost anyone.

I recommend you try Upright Go to help improve you posture which in turn can help improve back problems and over all heath.

Upright go is currently having a special on the device with 2 to 3 day shipping. Follow the link to check it out. I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did.

https://www.uprightpose.com/

Disclaimer: I did receive the Upright Go for free. I was not paid to review the device. My review is my honest feedback and opinion.

Comfy clients equal happy clients

Posted on by thespanerd

woman relaxing relax spa
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

There is nothing more annoying than laying down to enjoy a massage and the table is rock hard. One way to enhance your clients experience is to have a comfortable to table for clients to lay down on. Having a massage or an aesthetics table that has enough padding is key. No matter how good your facial or massage treatment is if you cheap out on the table clients won’t be able to relax and enjoy their service.

There are several types of tables out there that have extra thick padding. Oak Works and Earthlite are some of my favorite brands. I am also a huge fan of the electric table that adjust the heads and legs as well. There are also padding options that you can add to table. Massage Warehouse and Universal Spa Supplies are two companies that I like to get supplies from so check there if your looking for accessories to add onto your table.

Another nice touch to add to table is a table warmer. The two table warmers that I like the best by Oakworks and Earthlite.

Oakworks Premium Fleece Table Warmer

I like the Oakworks brand because it goes up to 135 degrees, down side for this heater that it turns off every 99 minutes. So, if you have cold treatment room and able to remember to reset the heater this is a good option for you.

oakworks table warmer

https://www.universalcompanies.com/By-Category/Linens-Towels-And-Bedding/Bedding-Accents-And-Accessories/Table-Pads-And-Covers/_/Fleece-Table-Warming-Pad/110V1/

Earthlite Deluxe Fleece Table Warmer

The Eartlite table warmer is another good choice it goes up to 122 degrees and this is heater will stay on for up to 10 hours. This heater is great when you have lots of back to back appointments. You can turn it on at the beginning of day and not have to reset it after each client.

earthlite table warmer

https://www.universalcompanies.com/By-Category/Linens-Towels-And-Bedding/Bedding-Accents-And-Accessories/Table-Pads-And-Covers/_/Samadhi-Pro-Deluxe-Table-Warmer/110V1/

Another must have for your treatment table is a water proof sheet that will go over table warmer and padding. That way you can wipe down and disinfect your table between clients. This will also protect your table warmer and padding from getting oil or product on them. You can find these at most spa supplies companies like I mention earlier.

Having a comfy table that is nice and warm is one of the many ways to enhance your treatments. So, if you haven’t laid down own your table in while, do it. See what your clients are feeling and make sure it’s comfortable. This is one way to make your clients have the best experience possible and keep them coming back to you.

Don’t let your spaghetti noodles stick together.

Posted on by thespanerd

Over the years many clients of mine have asked “What causes the stress in their muscles?” “Why is that muscle so tight?”

My answer is usually your spaghetti noodles are stuck together. That sounds a little weird, but bear with me.  If you stick noodles in a pot and don’t stir them, what happens? They stick together. What if you try to cook the noodles with not enough water? The noodles stay hard, don’t cook or they never soften.

Our muscles are made up of bunch of fibers, sorta like spaghetti noodles.
Frankly there are a lot if reasons why our muscles get tight. Usually if we don’t stretch our muscles, have a lot of stressors, are not active, poor posture or stay hydrated the muscle fibers will stick together. Just like the spaghetti noodles when we don’t stir them or use enough water.  The noodles are a silly analogy for the muscle fibers. But usually everyone knows what spaghetti noodles look like and have a basic premise on how to cook them.

So how do you keep your muscle fibers from sticking together. One of the best was is through massage. Massage loosens the muscle fibers so they can move freely. This helps with improving range of motion and relieves tension.


I recommend getting a massage a minimum of every three months, once every two weeks is ideal. Just like our car needs a good tune up every so many miles, so do we. Hey, another analogy!

Now massage won’t fix every tight muscle if you are not taking care of your body. I will go into more details in another blog post so this article will not take a long detour and get off topic. Mainly staying hydrated, active and general healthy habits along with massage is the one of the best ways to keep our muscle fibers/spaghetti noodles loose and moving freely.

(I love this picture from AMTA website that shares some good reasons to get a massage.)

The website MassageTherapy.com list some of the many benefits of massage and has links for some clinical studies on massage. I have shared their information and links for resources below.

The Benefits Of Massage
What exactly are the benefits of receiving massage or bodywork treatments? Useful for all of the conditions listed below and more, massage can:

  • Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.
  • Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.
  • Ease medication dependence.
  • Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body’s natural defense system.
  • Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
  • Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.
  • Improve the condition of the body’s largest organ—the skin.
  • Increase joint flexibility.
  • Lessen depression and anxiety.
  • Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
  • Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
  • Reduce post surgery adhesion’s and swelling.
  • Reduce spasms and cramping.
  • Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
  • Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller.
  • Relieve migraine pain.

A Powerful Ally
There’s no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.

Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into:

  • Decreased anxiety.
  • Enhanced sleep quality.
  • Greater energy.
  • Improved concentration.
  • Increased circulation.
  • Reduced fatigue.

Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.

Profound Effects
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:

  • Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.
  • Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
  • Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
  • High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.
  • Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.
  • Preterm infants have improved weight gain.

Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch—which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.

Increase the Benefits with Frequent Visits
Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting massage frequently can do even more. This is the beauty of bodywork. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

Resources:

http://www.massagetherapy.com

http://www.amata.com

Review the clinical research studies examining the benefits of massage.

Review massage information from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a division of the National Institutes of Health.