Manage Anxiety as the World Re-Opens
As the pandemic restrictions are eased and the country re-opens, social anxiety or re-entry anxiety can be an issue for many people. Going back to work at the office, heavy traffic commutes, obligations for social and family gatherings can all increase your stress. A 2021 study National Library of Medicine shows social anxiety symptoms significantly increased during COVID shutdowns.
Some common symptoms of Anxiety:
- Feeling nervous, restless or tense
- Increased heart rate
- Irritability
- Breathing rapidly
- Muscle tension
- Sleep problems
Just 10 Minutes of Massage Can Help
According to an article published in Medical News Today, a study found that 10 minutes of massage or relaxation can activate the body's system for overcoming stress. Massage helps release endorphins (the "feel-good" hormones) that calm the nervous system. When endorphins are released, stress-related hormones are decreased. Massage increases circulation, this delivers more blood to the muscles and in turn, helps to remove toxins and relieve tension.
Massage can also help:
- Reduce stress hormone levels
- Increase serotonin and dopamine
- Help to rebalance your hormones
- Relieve muscle tension
- Relax over-active minds
- Decrease anxiety and depression
- Increase feelings of content and well being
- Lower heart rate
- Promote better sleep
Some other ways to help with your anxiety are to limit your social media screen time, focus on what you can control, make a list of things you're excited to do again, reintroduce activities slowly, and make goals to reconnect.
Massage can be used anytime to relax the body. With a massage chair, in the comfort of home, you can use it anytime you need it — before work, after work, before bed, or even before a large social gathering. At Infinity, we offer a personalized experience where a Massage Chair Specialist (yes, a live human!) can work directly with you to find the perfect chair for you. Find your perfect chair today, or call 603-910-5000, Ext.1.
