According to numerous health experts, the number one likely cause of disease on the planet is stress; they say that 90% of all disease is stress-related. Most physical and nonphysical health problems have long-term, physiological stress as their origin. The Centers for Disease Control estimate that 80% of all health care dollars are spent on illnesses related to stress.

Research has proven that if the body stays in a state of physiological stress long enough, this sustained stress will eventually cause a breakdown in the body’s most vulnerable areas and illness and disease will likely occur.

Our bodies are designed to maintain optimal health but not all of us are healthy. Every time we have a health problem, we should be asking, “Is the underlying cause of this problem stress related and how can I eliminate it?” Perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. How are you handling your stress? Are you spending too many sleepless nights tossing and turning in bed? Are you easily irritated, angered or frustrated? Do you suffer from anxiety, high blood pressure, constant colds or out-breaks of rashes and hives? How are you managing your stress? Do you take medication? Do you turn to drugs or alcohol? Do you over-eat or maybe under-eat? There are countless unhealthy, unproductive ways that people choose to deal with stress. There are also many healthy and effective ways to deal with it as well .… regular exercise, yoga, meditation or prayer, taking a vacation, having a fun hobby… just to mention a few. Getting regular massage is also an effective tool for managing stress, which translates into:

• Decreased anxiety and depression

• Enhanced sleep quality

• Reduced fatigue/more energy

• Improved concentration

• Increased circulation

• Enhanced immunity

Do you need to de-compress and de-stress? Do yourself, your loved ones and co-workers a healthy favor and try scheduling a massage. A small investment in a massage today could be a huge investment in your health tomorrow.

Dale Martin is a local massage therapist located in “Old Towne” Tehachapi on W Valley Blvd. If you already schedule regular massages, that’s great! Keep it up! If you are new to massage therapy or you aer looking for a therapist, Dale would love to help you with your needs. You can call Dale at 805-748-5813 to set up an appointment.