Summer’s in full swing—are your muscles keeping up?
From morning hikes to afternoons in the garden and weekends by the lake, summer invites us to be more active. But with that increase in movement comes an increase in wear and tear on your body.
Even joyful motion can lead to discomfort if you’re not recovering properly. Fortunately, massage therapy supports your favorite summer activities—without the lingering aches and pains.
Common Summer Aches and Strains
Hiking & Walking: While getting outside is great for your health, uneven terrain and longer distances can tighten your calves, hamstrings, and lower back.
Swimming & Water Sports: Repetitive shoulder motion and core engagement can cause tightness or fatigue if you don’t stretch properly.
Gardening: Bending, lifting, and working in awkward positions can lead to sore hips, shoulders, and wrists.
- Golf: The twisting motion from swinging the club can lead to back pain, shoulder pain and even wrist and elbow injuries.
Even if you’re staying active in small ways—walking the dog more, taking extra steps on vacation, or carrying coolers to the beach—your body still benefits from intentional recovery.
Massage: Support your Acitive Summer Wellness Routine
Massage therapy does more than ease tension. It’s a proven way to:
Increase joint mobility and flexibility, especially in the hips, shoulders, and spine.
Reduce inflammation caused by repetitive motion or overuse.
Support faster recovery by improving circulation and lymphatic drainage.
Calm the nervous system, which is often overstimulated during travel or outdoor hustle.
By improving overall muscle function, massage helps your body handle activity better—and bounce back faster.
Stay Loose Between Massage Sessions: Quick Support Tips
To extend the benefits of your massage and keep your body in top form all summer, try these simple strategies:
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.
Dehydration contributes to muscle cramps and fatigue. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water per day—more if you’re sweating heavily.
2. Stretch Mindfully.
Incorporate gentle mobility routines like:
Hip circles or seated figure-4 stretches to ease tight hips
Thread-the-needle for upper back and shoulder mobility
Standing forward folds to stretch the spine and hamstrings
Hold stretches for 30–60 seconds and repeat 2–3 times, especially after activity.
3. Take Movement Breaks.
If you’re spending hours in the garden or on the trail, take breaks every 30–60 minutes to stretch or walk around. It’ll help prevent stiffness and overuse.
4. Listen to Your Body.
Soreness that lasts more than a couple of days may be a sign you need more recovery time—or a massage to reset.
Soak Up the Sun—Not the Strain: Book Your Summer Recovery Session
Massage isn’t just for when you’re in pain—it’s a tool to help you stay out of pain. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer or simply soaking up summer life, regular sessions help you stay mobile, relaxed, and ready for whatever the season brings.
Book your next massage today and let your body feel the sunshine—without the strain.
Body & Soul Massage in Salem Ma offers Therapeutic Massage for pain relief. To learn more visit www.bodysoulsalem.com or call 978-825-0040. HSA/FSA plans accepted.