Most people only realize that they are stressed when their body starts to hurt or they get a headache. However, stress can affect us in three ways: your emotional, physical and mental being. If stress is a factor in your life for a long period of time, your body goes through these sequences - the initial fight or flight response, a slower resistance reaction, and eventually exhaustion. ![stress-2902537_1280.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmf6hs9CmzH8qWg48Wca15cqSJGaPqVvphjyzGMSrmzQRu/stress-2902537_1280.jpg) ^{[Body experiencing pains](https://pixabay.com/photos/stress-anxiety-depression-unhappy-2902537/)} The consequences of stress are major reasons why we should choose to reduce stress as much as we can. Massaging helps to relax nerves, muscle pains, spasms and aches, anxiety, and most importantly - stress. Overall, it can improve your general health and well-being by improving blood circulation in the body. But how will you get the benefits of massage? Going to massage spas and salons may not be a viable option as it may be financially taxing and will make your daily schedule go haywire. Often, the available time slots may not fit in with your schedule. An alternative is **SELF-MASSAGE.** Although massaging oneself may seem somewhat incongruous, but with the help of some effective techniques, it may be just what you are looking for. Self-massage is the 'in thing' in this era of do-it-yourself. ![images(4).jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmXt43SDfKZiyS84qCGrBFNzds9Nt4k3RPiVtQzt3rEo21/images(4).jpg) ^{[Self-Massage Therapy](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcR2wyLaFh6-IgDG7KNx6Fl0b0d8Y5pK4GcDgmFJ0PfLUygPlwWM)} **10 Amazing Benefits of Self-Massage Therapy** 1. Self-massage helps relax the whole body by making you feel safe, calm, and relaxed. 2. It increases blood circulation and flexibility, which in turn helps relieve muscle tension. Thus, keeping the muscles healthy, flexible and strong. 3. Self-massage causes the body to produce a chemical called endorphins (the happy natural drug), that helps us feel happy. This happiness helps the body suffer less stress and less depressed in a natural way. 4. It aids in reducing sore or strained muscles after working out, spending long hours at the desk or at home. It helps loosen them up and allows them to move with greater flexibility. 5. Self-massage boosts the immune system and helps the body to naturally detox all of the body's systems. The body can then work more easily and in balance, thus improving overall health naturally. 6. Self-massage relaxes the whole body inside and out, thus allowing the body to breathe more easily and deeply. 7. It helps decrease blood pressure caused by the stress in the first place, helping the body to be more balanced. 8. It also aids in the ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately to the stress. 9. Self-massage satisfies the need for caring, nurturing, and the touch that we all need to be happy, healthy, and content. 10. Self-massage is one great way to help your skin look healthy and younger. **Self-Massage Tools** These are simple, safe tools that can be used anytime. To enjoy the full benefits of self massage, make sure you have these tools: ![images(6).jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmNcMD56qh17jdkPEZmaAPLKsys6TacWJd8xNCo3D7qT1a/images(6).jpg) ^{[Self-Massage Tools](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcQUDGOdRyJ2Z5D07bvEjbX6apxsoRMGunH8O6E5hcep_bBPc1Wg)} **Aromatic Oil** The use of aromatic oil is a primary tool for massaging yourself. This oil is not only fragrant but have medicinal properties. It helps reduce friction and work your muscles deeply without irritating your skin. Suitable for; * All body parts **Foam Roller** Foam roller is an excellent massage tool, used to relieve tension and improve posture. Suitable for; * Low, mid and upper back tension * Leg pain * Lat pain **Rolling Stick (Massage Stick)** Another great tool is the Rolling or Massage stick. It is versatile and can be used all over the body. Suitable for; * Backs, sides and fronts of legs * Inner thighs * Neck * Arms * Feet **Massage Ball/Tennis Ball** It is the perfect tool for relieving pain in specific areas. Suitable for; * Pain around the shoulder blade * Chest tension * Foot pain * Pain at the base of the skull * Gluteal/Sciatic pain **Trigger Point Cane** This cane-like tool is not as versatile as the massage stick and foam roller, but will do a much better job of addressing “trigger points” or “knots” around your shoulder blade. Suitable For; * Shoulder tension * Pain between or around the shoulder blades There are so many positive reasons to try self-massage that it just makes perfect sense. Some are: * All you really need are your hands, the art of natural healing touch. * It is safe and easy to learn with a little guidance. * You have nothing to lose, but your pain! * There are no side effects. * It can be performed on the body at any time. **Conclusion** You deserve the best for your body to be healthy and happy; self-massage is an essential part of any wellness plan. It is the natural way to help reduce, eliminate and relax your body from muscle tension and pain. To enjoy the benefits of massage without having to leave your house, you should definitely try out self-massage. I hope these suggestions can help bring relief to your daily aches and pains. Do you self-massage often? Let's talk in the comment section.