Massages are front runners in my self-care toolbox. I know when I’m overdue to a 60-minute ‘Time-out’ because I become as grizzly as a bear and no one wants to deal with that! Physical Touch is my love language and my preferred self-care consists of activities that render me completely unavailable to the outside world. So, it’s not hard to see why getting a massage would be at the top of my favorite “Treat Yo Self!” list. My wonderful husband gifted me with massages as a birthday present a few years ago and it is truly the gift that keeps on giving, y’all!
Does Self-Care = Comfort?
Here are the things I love about getting massages: the pampering, peace and quiet and alone time. I always leave feeling refreshed and relaxed, ready to tackle the rest of the day. My mind has time to clear and I have experienced moments of clarity on the table that I probably wouldn’t have had anywhere else. But, here’s the deal: massages are not always comfortable. In fact, there are times when my inward wincing becomes an actual grimace because kneading the knots out of my shoulders HURT. I didn’t get a massage to feel pain, I went to my massage therapist to work THROUGH the pain. Pain that comes with anxiety, disappointment, feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. I am aware that it will not always be comfortable; at times, it will actually feel sucky. But, if I embrace the pressure, I can walk away feeling better than ever.
Most times, embracing the pressure can be the hardest thing we’ve ever done. It can mean that we have to terminate a toxic relationship instead of living in codependency or take the job that pays less but offers a healthier working environment. Stepping into the new can be hard; heck, it can be downright scary at times. But, on the other side of the pressure, is the life that we have only hoped to experience.
Instead of spending our precious life moments trying to escape the discomfort, may we have the courage to embrace the challenges before us. Build a support team and secure healthy relationships to optimize the experience; we’re not created to experience life alone. We are meant to experience LIFE. So, harness your fear, put on your Courage Cape and step into the fray.