Firefighting takes its toll on your body in more ways than one. Everything from the weight of PPE, the tools and other accessories that are carried with you add to the weight that weighs you down and causes your body extra physical stress as well as mental stress than your body is already under while performing your tasks. Everything from physical fitness training, hands-on-fire ground training and any other type of training you may take part in adds to the stress you put on your body. Not forgetting the daily routines of family and outside activities you are a part of in your personal life. With that, “Help is on the way, Dear!”, schedule yourself a massage (monthly at least) and based on your activity level, goals, lifestyle, and general health, over time the frequency could change.
Being active on various levels can lead to injuries and possibly a few surgeries along the way. Massage therapy has been found beneficial in reducing soreness and recovery from minor issues or injuries that are incurred along the way. Adding massage to your toolbox increases physical and mental gains on and off the fire ground.
Overall Health and Wellness
- Deep relaxation and relief from chronic pain
- Greater flexibility and range of motion
- Recovery from muscle tension and stiffness
- Improved circulation to blood and lymph systems – aiding in lowered heart rate and blood pressure, immune system support and disease prevention.
- Increased body-mind awareness
- Clarity of mind and emotions
- Digestive improvement
Injury and Surgery Recovery
- Reduce pain, minimizing the need for pain medication.
- Inhibit swelling by moving lymph.
- Break up scar tissue.
- Hasten the healing process by increasing the flow of blood and oxygen.
Research has found that massage therapy can promote physical relaxation responses, which can play a significant role in controlling this occupational stress. There is a verity of other factors that can also contribute to mental health concerns that can impact firefighters. More than two thirds of firefighters reported having below average sleep quality and lack of sleep can cause many physical and mental issues, including increased reports of low back pain. Massage therapy can make it easier to fall asleep and improve sleep quality for a wide variety of people.
Adding massage therapy into your toolbox or your training regimen will improve your overall health and wellbeing. Utilize massage whenever possible. Helping yourself is helping those around you. Schedule today by calling into the office or booking online.