Posted on Mar 4, 2022

We'll be the first to bear the news: Prewedding stress is pretty much par for the course (no, you're not crazy—jitters and planning take a toll on everyone). As you run down your wedding checklist like boss, we suggest adding one more stress-busting appointment to your schedule: a massage. Whether you go by yourself, take your partner, treat your mom or make a day of it with your wedding party, a simple, hour-long massage can do wonders, from alleviating anxiety to strengthening your immune system. At the very least, you'll get an hour of complete relaxation to recharge and think nothing of the seating chart or catering contract. Here are some fabulous benefits to indulging in a prewedding massage. Because isn't it awesome when science validates your spa day?

1. Stress Reliever

First and foremost, a massage will majorly chill you out. Getting a massage has been proven to significantly reduce physical and psychological stress, as well as promote relaxation. In-laws driving you nuts? Vendors not returning your calls? Hello, massage.

2. Sleep Improver

Every to-be-wed knows how crucial it is to catch their zzz's, not just to maintain a wedding-ready glow, but for general health, cognitive function and a happy mood. Massages have been shown to improve sleep on a chemical level. Massage increases delta brain waves that are linked to deep sleep, which will help improve concentration and increase your energy levels.

3. Immunity Booster

A runny nose and sinus pressure are not on the guest list. Regular massages can increase the immune system's cytotoxic capacity—these are your warrior cells that fight enemy bacteria. It also aids in increasing in white blood cell activity to improve the overall function of your immune system.

4. Mood Lifter

Everyone's different, but sometimes it just hits you—the overwhelming feeling of stress, anxiety and moodiness can happen at any time for any reason (and it doesn't mean you're not happily engaged and excited to be married). Cortisol, the stress hormone, is the main hormonal bully in your body, so when cortisol levels increase, your body goes into stress mode. A good massage can reduce cortisol and increase serotonin, the neurohormone in charge of regulating anxiety and maintaining a good mood, resulting in a happier and healthier you. Yes, please.

5. Bloat Reducer

A little unexpected and not the most glamorous, but certain massage techniques can actually release enzymes and increase the metabolism of nutrients and antioxidants. When metabolizing faster, the body can more easily flush out toxins, which allows for optimal digestion (who knew?). These reactions help to reduce bloating and digestive discomfort so you can feel 100 percent throughout the wedding process. Who wants to worry about that when there are bridesmaid dresses and flower arrangements to think about?

Original post: https://www.theknot.com/content/prewedding-massage-benefits