With the current situation around the world, this is a perfect time to talk about getting a massage while being sick....should you get a massage or not? What do you think is the best answer?
Let's learn about the immune system and what you body does while being sick!!! We have all the time in the world right now to learn something new.
Immune System
The immune system is a defense system, helping many biological structures and processes within an organism that protects against disease. In other terms the immune system is the body's defense against infections. The immune system attacks germs and helps keep us healthy.
When your immune system is weak (sick) you're fighting off a virus due to cold or flu or even simply a sore throat or headache with body chills, it means you are sick and your body needs to stay warm so your lymphocytes (white blood cells), which are provided to clean your body, can activate to make you feel better.
Rest allows your lymphocytes to multiply so they can then work efficiently to clean up infection. This is always best done when you are resting and warmly tucked up.
Massage a Good Idea?
When you're feeling sick and achy it does sound soothing and relaxing to come in for a nice, warm massage. Right?!! You may think you need a pain reliever to help with the achiness.
Massage does boost the immune system and relieve your tension. However, when your body is already fighting off a virus due to a cold or flu, a massage can actually make things worse, You body is working overtime so, letting it rest is the best thing you can do is... NOT a massage! If you're too sick to go to work, probably too sick to get a massage!
Side Effects of Massage While Being Sick
Unknotting your muscles pushes toxins into your system
Massage can overstimulate the movement of toxins through the internal organs when your body most needs to conserve energy to take away the virus
With increased circulation and manipulation of muscles, it releases and/or pushes metabolic waste through your system faster than normal
Increase symptoms and make you feel worse
Spreading a virus to others (Sneezing, coughing, touching, talking)
2020 Coronavirus
COVID-19 is throughout the world currently and killing people like crazy! The State of Ohio shut down all massage therapy places due to being in close counters with people and with this virus people may be sick with the virus for 1 to 14 days before developing symptoms. This is the time you would be contagious and not even know, which is super scary!
Above shows the power of social distancing from people, so you dont get them sick!