Massage for your Teenager?

BREAKTHRU is second home to many teens seeking relief from school sports-related injuries, or working to improve their fitness and stamina.  But seldom are they coming in for massage, a service they no doubt view as more suited to Mom or Dad.

 

While teens may be less likely than their parents to go to a massage therapist, there are plenty of reasons why this age group should be encouraged to give it a try.  The benefits of massage are well documented, among them relief of muscle tension, lowered stress hormones, increased sense of relaxation, improved immune function, and even a heightened ability to concentrate, according to studies conducted by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine.  But for teenagers, there’s an additional payback.

 

The teenage body is in the midst of transformation – exponential growth and development in a rapid period of time.  On the physical side, teens may be at increased risk for aches, pains, and injury.  Many teens strain their bodies with competitive sports, get erratic sleep, and consume a less-than-optimal diet.  Massage can help muscles recover from overuse, and help balance the body and maintain that stability.

 

Perhaps even more crucial, teen massage can help improve body image and sleep patterns, and contribute to decreased depression, anxiety, and stress. This keeps a teen connected to his or her body, even as it morphs in confounding ways.  “Many teens are self-conscious, and not happy with their bodies,” says Eeris Kallil, massage therapist and shiatsu instructor at the Boulder College of Massage Therapy, in Colorado.  “Massage can help teens stay grounded.” Bodywork has also been reported to help mediate eating disorders, a growing concern among teens.

 

BREAKTHRU Fitness and Physical Therapy offers convenient evening and weekend massage hours to accommodate the busy schedules of today’s teens.  Call to schedule an introductory $39 BREAKTHRU massage for your teen today and help get them started on a lifetime practice of self-care through regular massage and bodywork.

 

Diane Mora

Massage Therapist

Article adapted with permission from Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP)