“To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep the mind strong and clear.” – Buddha

This quote from Buddha rings truth throughout my being. Our bodies are so important, my darlings, especially after 50. Keeping our bodies in good health is our duty. If we want to live a long life and continue enjoying everything this planet has to offer, we must take care of what keeps us here. Additionally, as Buddah says, the stronger our body is, the clearer our mind is. And we all want to be able to keep our minds sharp until our last moment, don’t we?

Now, our bodies must be taken care of in many ways. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind the most where full-body health is concerned is food and exercise. What we put into our bodies is the just as important as how much we move them. A diet full of unprocessed food and regular exercise will keep our brains sharp and our bodies strong.

What Is Bodywork?

With that being said, there is often one element that is forgotten—bodywork. Bodywork is often defined as an alternative medicine. According to Wikipedia, Bodywork is:

“Any therapeutic or personal development technique that involves working with the human body in a form involving manipulative therapy, breath work, or energy medicine. Bodywork techniques also aim to assess or improve posture, promote awareness of the “body/mind connection” rather than the “mind-body connection”, or to manipulate the electromagnetic field surrounding the human body and affecting health.”

Many of us have had some type of bodywork, usually in the form of a massage or facial. But I can’t tell you how many people after 50 have forgotten or feel uncomfortable using many bodywork modalities. Whether this stems from being uncomfortable during a massage or lack of knowledge involving different modalities like acupuncture, many of us are not using this important medicine.

Don’t Be Afraid Of Bodywork

Now, my readers, there is nothing to be afraid of regarding bodywork after 50. I’m here to tell you that this important form of alternative medicine has been healing and supporting bodies of all ages for thousands of years. Bodywork can be a fantastic way to help naturally support your health in many different forms. Many of these facets are important for the mind/body connection, as well as a great way to relieve stress and pain from the body without invasive therapies. While this of course will not replace your doctor or your medications, it lends a hand in your overall body health.

Here is a list of modalities I think you’ll like to try!

Acupuncture

A traditional Chinese medicine that originated thousands of years ago, acupuncture inserts hair-thin needles into specific points throughout the body. The thought is that you have blocked energy in certain areas of your body that need to be released. This method allows the energy flow to be restored in the body, stimulate healing and promote relaxation. Although some might experience a tiny bit of pain when a tight area is being released, this procedure is often painless and takes less than an hour.

Not only can acupuncture help with stress, but it can also help with arthritis, digestive issues, depression and more. I’ve met many people who have experienced great benefits from the use of acupuncture. To find a good practitioner, make sure you read reviews of different places and ask for testimonials. You want someone who is gentle and around whom you feel comfortable. Ask any questions you need to ask and don’t be afraid to try out many people before finding your preferred person.

Massage

There is nothing better than a great massage, my darlings! There are so many different types of massages, and so many great practitioners out there to choose from. I know as we get older, sometimes we feel uncomfortable being touched or in our own skin. However, I encourage you to find a therapist that meets your needs and works with your insecurities.

Whether this includes finding a female massage therapist or a very gentle masseuse, you can discover what works for you. Do not be afraid to communicate with your massage therapist in the type of pressure you want. It’s ok to do a light touch, or a strong touch, know what you like and listen to what your body needs and wants. Massage can relieve stress, reduce pain, improve circulation and enhance immunity. It also helps you stay grounded and in touch with your body. It’s truly a wonderful thing.

Lymphatic Drainage

If you have recently had surgery or you’re looking for a way to restore your body by releasing waste and toxins, a Lymphatic Drainage massage might be right for you. This is a form of massage that is gentle and can help people with lymphedema, fibromyalgia and other conditions. It’s also said to help with depression. Did I mention you can even do them at home by yourself? You can find many videos, but I found this one HERE very simple to do.

Craniosacral Therapy

This type of therapy uses very gentle touch to release tension deep in the body. It is said to relieve pain and improve overall body health and performance. If you are having a hard time sleeping or find something out of whack in your system, this therapy might be for you. What I love about Craniosacral is the gentle touch and the fact it relies on deep relaxation. It allows your body to go into a deep state so it may heal itself during the sessions. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and almost as if you had the best sleep of your life. This modality is not for everyone, but if you enjoy energy work and relaxation, I definitely recommend Craniosacral and it’s many benefits.

Chiropractor

Many of us have seen chiropractors in our lives. If you find a good one, you probably visit them once or twice a month, depending on your body and its function. Chiropractic work is a great way to keep your bones and joints happy, as well as your body and mind aligned. I suggested doing research to find the right chiropractor for you, as there are many different types out there. Make sure you don’t go to the first one you see. Always research and ask for testimonials. You want to feel comfortable both in the office and after you leave! If you find the right person, you will experience great benefits from this type of therapy.

Facials

Last but not least, let’s not forget about our skin! Getting monthly or bi-monthly facials can work wonders for your overall skin health. Remember, the skin is our largest organ and we must do everything we can to take care of it. The skin of our face is often a great indicator of what is going on inside our bodies. I love going to get a facial because if you have an esthetician who really knows their stuff, they are able to tell you what is going on for you just by looking at your face. As well, my darlings, facials do not have to be overly expensive. You can even take care of your skin at home through a skincare routine. But if you can, treat yourself to a facial every once in a while. I promise you will see the benefits.

Take Care Of Your Whole Being

The suggestions above are merely a few bodywork ideas for you to try. I hope these inspire you to try something for the first time or revisit a practice again. Always love your bodies and they will love you back!

Which bodywork practices do you love? Share your thoughts in the comments below or on Facebook & Instagram. 

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