The current pandemic is forcing us to change the way we take care of our physical and mental health. While it has definitely flipped our worlds upside down, it’s also forcing us to grow and be mindful of the present. During this time while dealing with quarantine and new stressors, it’s important that we also take time to care for our bodies, ensuring a healthier immune system. Below are 3 at-home massages you can use throughout your day to keep your bodies (and minds) tension-free!

Cupping Therapy

Cupping is thought to promote healing by increasing circulation to localized areas by using a negative pressure approach. This action mimics your body’s natural inflammatory response summoning fresh, oxygen-rich red blood cells along with white blood cells and nutrients to combat inflammation and reduce the presence of metabolic waste. Research suggests that cupping not only helps to alleviate aches and pains, it can also be used for beautification purposes to promote younger-looking skin on the face and body! While traditional cupping (typically using heat and glass) is not do-able at home, Bellabaci cupping systems utilize medical-grade silicone cups and essential oil-based, high-slip massage oils to make cupping accessible from the comfort of your home!

SHOP: Bellabaci Facial & Body Cupping Kits

 

Gua Sha Massage

The gua sha tool is extremely versatile. It can be used in both facials and body treatments to promote localized blood flow and encourage lymphatic drainage. If you’re experiencing tension in your arms or have carpal tunnel (or even plantar fasciitis), the Gua Sha tool will likely become your new best friend. Gua Sha uses a stroke that creates pressure and stretches at the same time, promoting localized blood flow. We love to combine this tool with Yoga Balm, a wonderfully herbaceous balm that instantly provides intense, soothing warmth to tired, overworked muscles and tendons. Check out the video below to see how to properly use these products together.

 

SHOP: Yoga Balm 1.69 Oz, $48.00

Foot Reflexology 

Foot massages don’t just feel good, they’re stress relieving! Chiropractors, physical therapists, and massage therapists alike use foot reflexology to ease stress and address tension throughout the body. Specific areas on the foot are thought to correspond to different areas of the body (see the chart below). Whether you give yourself a foot massage or use a foot roller, you’re doing yourself a favor!

Here's our favorite moisturizing foot repair butter for at-home reflexology massage. This rich, moisturizing butter contains a blend of calendula extract, shea butter, and rosemary essential oil to help moisturize and hydrate cracked or calloused feet.

SHOP: Kneipp Calendula & Orange Foot Repair Butter 3.45 Oz., $22.00