Sunday, November 7, 2010

Cancer Bitch - Gets Rubbed the Right Way

I now have an excuse to get regular massages. A new study shows that it provides benefits for those with cancer or lots of stress. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine says "it boosts the body's infection-fighting white blood cells while also bringing down levels of immunity-weakening cortisol."

I recently booked a deep tissue massage at the Dansk Day Spa in Occoquan. When I told a colleague, she was concerned it would be too much for me.

"This is a regular massage," she said, taking my hand and gently rubbing it with hers. "This is a Swedish massage," she began rubbing her thumbs into the back of my hand. "And this is Deep Tissue massage," she dug her elbow into the back of my hand. Yikes! She advised me to ask for a "Swedish Massage and tell them to go deep."

It was too much for my chemo addled brain to process, so I went ahead with the Deep Tissue and came out just fine. I was not sore the next day as many had predicted. I went back last weekend and had the Swedish Massage. It was HEAVEN! I have another appointment with Angie in mid-December, probably when I'll need it the most. I don't know if it helps, but it sure as hell feels good!

And, now, here it is - your moment of zen. Sit in a quiet place in the Lotus position and say, "Ommmmmm...."


5 comments:

BaysidePartners said...

Lay back, relax and enjoy.... ahhh! I love it. It's great therapy, Boxilla!

Burrito

Unknown said...

Chillin' is good. BTW, aren't you ALWAYS rubbin' people the wrong way? Not you, huh?

Unknown said...

You are too funny! I am still waiting for that book that you are writing to hit the bookstores.
Ok, I'm sitting in a lotus position, holding the "OK" sign. The world is a beautiful place! So about the massage, "Angie" as in Rolling Stones Angie?
Boost those fighting cells girl and just say no to stress. Miss you, Charlene & Mic

Arcee said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Krebster said...

Hi, I just found your blog today and am inspired. So happy to hear that your massage was a relaxing treat.