How Does Massage Help You Relax? Circulation, Hormones & More.

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Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful but incredibly demanding experience. Ever had one of those days where you feel like a tightly wound spring? Your shoulders are creeping up by your ears, your jaw is clenched, and even your brain feels a little…fried. We’ve all been there. But you know what can work wonders? A good massage. You will practically float out of the room. Now, you might think, “Well, yeah, massages feel nice.” But what’s really happening in your body to create that deep relaxation? There are a whole lot more reasons behind why postnatal massage is so good for you. Let’s explore, shall we?

Here’s the Deal:

1. Hello, Circulation: Let’s talk about that puffy feeling. It’s totally normal after giving birth. Your body is adjusting and getting rid of extra fluid. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. Massage is like a gentle nudge for your circulatory system. It helps your blood vessels move fluids around, which can significantly reduce swelling in your hands, feet and ankles. Plus, when your blood is flowing better, it’s carrying oxygen and nutrients to your tired muscles and tissues. This can speed up recovery and give you much-needed energy. It’s a win-win! Gentle strokes and kneading techniques also help with lymphatic drainage. This flushes out waste products and excess fluid.

2. Hormonal Balance: You’ve probably heard about the “baby blues” or even postpartum depression. These mood swings are no joke. One minute, you’re overjoyed; the next you’re in tears. It’s a lot to handle, but massage can be a gentle way to help restore balance. Massage has been shown to increase serotonin levels, helping to lift your spirits and reduce feelings of anxiety and sadness. This “feel-good” hormone plays a huge role in regulating your mood, sleep, and even appetite. Massage also helps to lower cortisol, allowing your body to relax and recover. Cortisol is your stress hormone. High levels can lead to anxiety, sleep problems, and even weight gain. The combination of these hormonal effects can profoundly impact your overall well-being. Not only will you feel more relaxed and positive, but you’ll also have more energy to care for your little one.

3. Less Muscle Knots: From carrying your little one for nine months to the physical demands of labour and delivery, your muscles have been through a lot. Add in the constant lifting, feeding, and rocking, and it’s no wonder your body feels like it’s been through a marathon. A skilled therapist specialising in post natal massage can tailor the session to your needs. They’ll know which muscles need extra attention, what areas to avoid, and how to adjust the pressure for your comfort. Those tight shoulders from breastfeeding? That nagging back pain from carrying your baby? Massage can target those specific areas, gently stretching and loosening tight muscles, releasing tension, and reducing pain.

Me-Time Matters: Postnatal massage offers a precious hour (or more!) where you can completely disconnect from the demands of motherhood and reconnect with yourself. Think of massage as hitting the reset button on your emotional and physical state. The positive effects of massage extend beyond the session itself. When your mind and body are relaxed, you’re more likely to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Even a slight improvement in sleep quality can make a huge difference for new mums. You’ll likely feel more patient, loving, and present with your little one. After all, a happy mama makes for a happy baby. It might seem impossible to find time for a massage but trust us, it’s worth it. Ask your partner, family, or friends for help with childcare, even if it’s just for a couple of hours. Many massage services even offer in-home postnatal massage in Singapore, so you don’t have to worry about leaving the house.

Stress SOS: Why New Mums Need to Manage Stress?

Let’s talk about stress for a minute. As a new mum, it’s unavoidable. There are sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and the constant worry about whether you’re doing everything right. But here’s the thing: stress isn’t just a minor inconvenience. It can have a natural effect on your health and well-being. It can affect your mood, making you feel anxious or down. It can interfere with your sleep, leaving you exhausted and unable to cope. And it can even make it harder to bond with your precious little one. That’s where massage comes to the rescue. It’s not just about pampering (although that’s a definite bonus!). Massage profoundly affects your nervous system, activating the “rest and digest” mode and calming down the stress response. When you’re less stressed, you’re better equipped to handle the challenges of motherhood. You’re more patient, more present and more able to enjoy those precious moments with your baby.

How Often Should You Get a Massage?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as the ideal frequency depends on your needs, budget, and body response. How are you feeling? Are you dealing with a lot of muscle tension, fatigue or emotional stress? If so, more frequent massages might be helpful. Listen to your body and let it guide you. While there’s no solid number, here’s a general idea of what many new mums find helpful: 

• Natural Birth: You can usually enjoy massages as early as 5-7 days after delivery.
• C-Section: It’s important to wait at least 21 days for your incision to heal properly.

Consider scheduling consecutive sessions, especially during the initial weeks, for the best results and to maximise the benefits of postnatal massage. By regularly receiving massages, you and your therapist can closely monitor your progress and adjust the massage techniques.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of a newborn is a round-the-clock job, and it’s easy to put your own needs on the back burner. But remember mum, you deserve some rest too! Postnatal massage is a beautiful way to prioritise your physical and emotional well-being. It’s a chance to recharge, relieve stress, and reconnect with your body after the incredible journey of childbirth. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or just plain sore, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to a massage. It’s not just an indulgence; it’s an investment in your health and happiness. And trust us, your body will thank you!

If you’re looking for expert care and a genuinely pampering post natal massage in Singapore, we suggest checking out Postnatal Massage Singapore (PNSG). The best part is that we offer at-home postnatal massage to cater to your convenience. Find out more by visiting our homepage today!