by Lyndi Hutchinson, LMT |
This time of year, all over the world, people are thinking about gift giving. Stores of every description are devoting precious floor space to induce a hurried buyer to purchase that “something special.” Sparkling lights, bright colors and festive music accompanies elaborate gift displays.
However, especially in view of economic conditions, buyers are more prudent than ever with their purchasing dollars. No one wants to give a gift that ends up in the closet or basement covered with dust.
For adults, the gift choices often are tools, clothes, candy, jewelry and so on. However, the best gifts are ones that bring the recipient the greatest benefit and satisfaction.
Living in the Land of Overindulgence, many give gifts of exercise equipment—hoping the recipient may aspire to new heights of physical health. Unfortunately, many of these well-intended gifts go unused—becoming valets for ironing that needs to be done.
According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA), home exercise equipment sales have more than doubled in the last 10 years and health club memberships have seen a 63 percent increase. Yet a closer look reveals that the number of people who exercise more than twice a week has not increased. The SGMA report further that nearly one fifth of home exercise equipment goes unused.
So, how do you effectively encourage physical activity? Give the gift of classes! Yoga, Pilates and aerobic classes offer camaraderie as encouragement to continue. Sports lessons like tennis, bowling, or golf are also just a few examples of fun ways to motivate folks.
Many of our loved ones may overlook their need for a well-deserved break. Give the gift that benefits their well being. Be it a facial, manicure, pedicure, spa treatment or the healing touch of massage. There are approximately 75 different types of massage—all relaxing and restorative.
According to a survey done by the American Massage Therapy Association in 2007, more people are getting massage therapy for medical purposes than for relaxation. The survey showed:
- 87 percent agree that massage can be effective in reducing pain
- 85 percent agree that massage can be beneficial to health and wellness
- 59 percent would like to see their insurance plans cover massage therapy
The benefits of massage are unchallenged. Massage lowers blood pressure, reduces pain, eases muscle tension, enhances the metabolic system, improves circulation and the list goes on.
Giving the healing gift of massage has become easier with gift cards enclosed in a beautiful gift basket. Most massage therapists give discounts on several treatments purchased at one time. Give a gift that last a year—one massage a month.
In these stressful times, physical activity and a calming massage is a welcomed reprieve. When it comes to feeling good and helping your body run well, exercise and massage are truly some of the best gifts.
References:
For more info, contact Lyndi Hutchinson, L.M.T. at 846-3593, certified massage therapist specializing in chinese facial massage at the Senses Sanctuary.
