Secrets to Happiness: Secret #14

We have another physical secret today. It's one that some people swear by and others see it as too intimate (they don't want to be touched by a stranger) or embarrassing (they don't want to be nude in front of a stranger.)

I'm talking about our latest secret:

Get a massage

And don't just get one, but try to budget to have one regularly, about every four to six weeks, more often if you can. Schedule it before your hair or nail appointments (we'll get to the wonders of a pedicure for men at some point, just believe that it is worth the money.)

What about the objections? Well, massage therapists are not sex workers. They are licensed (trained) practitioners in giving massages. Not all masseurs (or masseuses) are equal and they're not all comfortable with every type of massage. But they are all used to touching their clients for the purpose of massage.

And they have seen all body types. A former co-worker of mine who obtained her license specializes in geriatric and Hospice massage, providing comfort and therapy for folks that aren't too worried about their looks.

A good massage therapist will strive to make you comfortable. The massage tables are heated. They use warm oils. Warms towels protect your modesty. Usually soft relaxing music is playing.

There are all types of massages from light Swedish to hot stones to sports massages to intense deep tissue. If you are new to massage, I don't recommend (and no therapist would perform) a deep tissue massage. Most massages last an hour, though they can be as short as ten or fifteen minute chair massages where you remained clothed to two hour full body sessions.

If you're just beginning, I recommend a 45 to 60 minute mild Swedish massage. You will leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Remember, as I said in my post about Jocelyn's Christmas gift from last year, you should have someone drive you just to be safe. The more massages you have, the more you can experiment with the various types, times, and intensities. There are no right or wrong ways, except that it should never cause you lasting pain.

The goal with bodywork is to determine where you are storing your stress. Many keep it in their neck and shoulders and poor posture adds to the tension. Massage can help loosen and relax those muscles, helping you make your own improvements to your body. Bodywork is also helpful if you are regularly exercising. All pro teams employ a massage therapist. It is an essential part of training.

If you do this regularly, you will feel better over time. You will set yourself up to feel happier. Like all of the other secrets, it is such a simple thing, yet most of us never even consider it.

It'll cost anywhere from $45 to $100 or so at most places, depending on the area and the facility (ranging from spartan gyms to ultra exclusive spas.) The typical charge averages from $1 to $2 per minute. If you do use a spa you might want to add in another service, such as a facial treatment or a sauna. If you use a gym, maybe you could get a workout in or sign up for a session with a personal trainer.

What is your experience with bodywork? Do you think it's worth the money? Do you trade massages with your significant other? What are your recommendations?