Massages lend hand to reduce stress, increase awareness

Evin Shoap / senior photographer Junior Katio DiDonato settles down and closes her eyes for a little down time and a nice massage.

Take a right before the turnstiles, and nestled down a long corridor lies one of UREC’s best-kept secrets — the massage studio. Students may be unaware that they can get regular massages at school, but their benefits can be tremendous.

"The main thing that massage does is bring awareness to your body and make you love the skin you’re in," said Steve Banks, one of UREC’s certified massage therapists said. "Everybody needs it. I’d recommend it once a month."

Classes, homework, extracurricular activities, roommates, exams and a social life can add up to a lot of stress.

"Stress is one of the main reasons students get massages," Banks said.

In fact, stress is a leading cause of sickness in the United States. Too much stress seriously can affect physical and mental well-being, according to Discovery Health.

Massage increases circulation, helps regulate body temperature, releases endorphins, and helps with stress release, according to UREC therapists.

The studio offers three types of massages. For students who mainly want relief from stress and tension, a Swedish massage normally is recommended. This is a general massage, the main purpose of which is overall relaxation with no specific muscles or joints in mind, according to UREC.

Athletes — or those that might have been injured — also may want to consider massage therapy. A deep tissue massage targets specific muscles and joints, and may help overcome the pain associated with continued use.

Myofascial release, the third massage option UREC offers, is for anyone experiencing chronic pain or an injury. This type of massage focuses on healing injury and increasing movement, according to UREC therapists.

For the unsure or indecisive student, a brief consultation with the therapist prior to the massage will answer any questions. Specific pains or tightness and any medical conditions are pinpointed during this consultation and will be worked into the individual massage treatment.

To make a massage appointment, simply visit the UREC program registration desk. Massages cost $22 for 30 minutes, $30 for 45 minutes and $37 for 60 minutes. Payment must be made at the time of the massage and only FLEX is accepted.

Tips for a stellar massage:
1. Relax
2. Don’t be afraid to use your whole hand while massaging.
3. Don’t push it and hurt yourself trying to give a massage to someone else.
4. Try to cater to the needs of the individual. Listen and encourage feedback.
5. Be sure not to hurt the person you are massaging.