The soothing physical closeness of a massage relieves stress levels and elevates mood. Scientific findings have not only reinforced the health benefits of massage but also suggest that something as simple as a hug can strengthen the immune system. New spa treatments and wellness practices are promoted all the time, but when it comes to developing new concepts, the ancient act of the massage should not be overlooked.
In our modern society, we’re becoming increasingly more in synch with our technology, but are losing out elsewhere. Every waking hour we handle mobile phones, touch screens, and other devices, but are losing out on actual bodily contact with other human beings. Cem Ekmekcioglu is an Austrian physician, author and teaching professor at the Medical University of Vienna who makes the argument for a poverty of touch, suggesting that our society is suffering chronologically due to the changes in how we interact with each other on a physical level.Even adults in solid relationships, Ekmekcioglu argues, are increasingly finding themselves with less regular bodily contact with their other halves. From a medical point of view, this is sufficient reason to be concerned about the effects on our society.
Ekmekcioglu that if the brain is not adequately treated with soothing touches, the chance of developing disorders that can lead to burnout, hypertension and other stress disorders is increased.
Anyone who goes without physical contact for whatever reason can compensate for this by treating themselves to a substitute in the form of a massage. The fact that the desire to be touched was actually a driving force in the decision-making process to pursue a massage was demonstrated in the results of a survey on wellness and body contact, as reported by ZDFzoom of Second German Television. The fact that a lack of skin to skin contact could be severely weakening an immune system is something shouldn’t be overlooked.
Massages Offer a Multitude of Health Benefits
Physical interaction and stimulating touching has measurable health benefits, including the ability to lower blood pressure and cortisol levels. Although touching can help reduce stress levels in both men and women, it’s males who can benefit more from the benefits. Even for those who aren’t currently in romantic or sexual relationships, the positive effects of touching can be replicated via massage and wellness treatments.
A recent survey carried out by researchers at the Haptik Laboratory of the University of Leipzig showed that those individuals who don’t experience pleasant touching in everyday life are more likely to need to pursue wellness treatment than those who feel more contented. These findings are particularly true of older age groups, with the 70-85 year old demographic twice as likely to benefit from the use of massages and wellness applications.
Even outwardly healthy younger individuals can feel the dramatic benefits if they are single. The group of singletons particularly enjoyed and felt the benefits of the treatment, while even those reporting plenty of physical contact in their daily lives reported feelings of relaxation after treatment. These survey results applied to both men and women.
What Makes Massages So Effective?
It’s little wonder that massages can generate almost instant positive effects on the human body. Most massaging techniques stimulate the parasympathetic nerve – the part of the nervous system responsible for relaxation and general feelings of well-being – basic bodily processes like breathing, blood flow, digestion and other metabolic processes are all stimulated. What’s more, massages can stimulate the production of endorphins, the happy hormone. Meanwhile, stress hormone levels are diminished.
The Applications of Touch and Massage in Hotel and Hospitality
What are the implications of these findings for managers of wellness treatments and spa concepts? Above all else, the realization that the basic desire for human touch will always win out as a best-selling product and will continue to remain independent of all wellness trends. Tourism consultations, therefore, advise those with a limited budget against spending large amounts on high-tech treatments and providing wellness on tap. The latest generation of massage machines, Chi machines, color light lamps, and Brainlight items offer a more immediate approach to stress relief, but can never replace the innate human response provided by the direct, soothing contact provided by the therapist to the guest.
Take the Right Approach with Treatments!
With such a consistency in findings, it’s little wonder that massages remain a top priority for those offering spa treatments. A survey carried out by “Emotion Spa Magazine”, a French Publication, focuses on the preferences of spa users and wellness center guests. When asked about which treatment they place at the top of their lists of must-haves, massages came out as the undisputed number one. Despite some corners of the industry pushing for automated innovation, the consumer base shows there’s no consolation.
The enduring popularity of the massage says it all. For those offering the service, it’s absolutely crucial that the basic prerequisites are focused on. First and foremost, qualified personnel who truly know their craft are required to support a well though-out and thoroughly coordinated treatment program. Classical massage techniques should form the foundation of services, as these cater to the needs of the majority of guests, but it’s also recommended to offer at least one special highlight as part of a treatment package. Offering massages that aren’t practiced widely, or pioneering a new treatment approach are enticing unique selling points that provide a spa location with a hallmark of quality, innovation and also allows operators the freedom to make the right decisions when it comes to pricing treatment packages.
