BEATING WINTER SLUMPS

Massage for Energy & Mood 

We’re getting closer and closer to spring, but in Pittsburgh, our winters are long and overcast. For many people, that can affect how they feel. Less sunlight and a drop in your activity level during the winter both contribute to these changes, especially if your brain chemistry is predisposed to these conditions. 

So, what can you do to beat the winter slumps? Let’s look at options.

Ways to Beat Winter Slumps 

1. Keep a regular sleep routine. 

That helps regulate your normal wake-sleep cycle, so you can stay on schedule and get proper rest. 

2. Get natural sunlight exposure when you can. 

Take a brief walk outside, weather permitting, or work near a window during daylight hours if possible. Light boxes can also be helpful if you suffer from seasonal affective disorder. 

3. Stay active. 

Take a class at PFP! Ski or take a brief walk if the weather permits. Research shows that regular exercise promotes mental well-being. 

4. Get a massage 

A massage for mental health? How does that work? Let’s look at that in more detail.

How does massage change your mood and energy?

So, how does massage help your mood and energy? 

Research shows that the mind and body work together to affect our health. Massage has been found to improve mental health in the following ways: 

● Regulation of the autonomic nervous system

● Reduction of stress hormones 

● Increase of brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine - neurotransmitters that improve mood 

So, massage literally changes how your mind and body work together. 

Luckily, at PFP, we have five massage therapists who can help you get past any winter blues. 

Schedule your massage to beat those winter slumps and reinvigorate your mental health. We are happy to help you!