Massage therapy is a great way to promote physical and mental health, reduce pain and promote health and well-being. CBD is known for holistically treating a variety of conditions, including inflammation, insomnia and anxiety. When applied topically through skillful massage therapy, the effects of CBD enhance the benefits of massage therapy. So you can enjoy the benefits of both massage and CBD at the same time;
CBD for mental health
Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, yet offers relaxing benefits. Because of these benefits, CBD is often used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and similar conditions. CBD is still being studied and is proven to help with specific anxiety conditions. CBD is not habit forming and can help relieve both mental and physiological symptoms of anxiety;
Regular massage therapy has also been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, in some cases by up to 50%. Combining massage therapy with topical CBD application can significantly boost mental health.
CBD for chronic pain
Massage therapy helps provide relief for a variety of conditions that cause chronic pain and inflammation, such as past injuries, arthritis, fibromyalgia, sciatica, migraines and even cancer. The massage improves circulation in the lymphatic system, increases the number of white blood cells and relieves muscle tension;
CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which has protein receptors throughout the body that absorb CBD. These receptors are associated with circulation, pain, appetite, metabolism and a variety of other systems. It has been shown that stimulation of the endocannabinoid system can help enhance the function of all these systems and in turn reduce pain and inflammation. In addition, CBD has been shown to be a powerful antioxidant that helps fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and relieve discomfort caused by chronic pain conditions.
We start with CBD massage
By pairing the many benefits of CBD with massage therapy, you can enhance the unique benefits of both for your overall health, well-being and relaxation;
How to make massage oil
Mix CBD oil with carrier oil and create your own massage oil. If you don’t want to buy commercially produced CBD massage products, you can make your own by mixing CBD powder isolate, extract or tincture with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil. You can also combine a portion of the tincture or isolate with your favorite body lotion.
For example, you can mix 0.5g of 99% CBD isolate with 2 cups (470 ml) of a carrier oil of your choice to make 500 mg of CBD massage oil. If you like, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender or chamomile;
You can also mix the extract (which is CBD oil already mixed with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil) with 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) each of a combination of your favorite oils such as jojoba, sweet almond, rosehip, etc. With the help of CBD tincture, you can make many CBD massage oils very easily and quickly on your own.
How to massage?
The most enjoyable thing is when you relax and let someone else massage you, and it doesn’t have to be a professional masseur, but perhaps your counterpart. Not everyone has this option, but you can also do the massage yourself.
Self-help CBD oil massage
rub the CBD ointment or balm directly on sore or tense areas. Topical CBD treatment works best when you apply it directly to the area where you want to feel relief. Massage the product into your skin directly over tight, sore or aching muscles or joints. For example, you can massage the product into your calves and thighs if you are sore after a workout;
Start by warming up your muscles with bigger strokes. Using the palms of your hands or a massage tool, make long, gliding strokes along the length of the muscle or joint you would like to massage. This will help warm your muscles and improve circulation in the area, making a more targeted massage more effective. These gliding strokes will help incorporate the CBD oil into your skin. The oil will also provide lubrication and make it easier for you to run your hands or a tool over your skin;
Target painful areas with smaller strokes. Once you have warmed up the muscles, you can focus on specific areas of pain or discomfort. Use your fingers or a massage tool to push or rub pressure points or make deeper, firmer strokes along the length of the sore muscle;
Don’t worry too much about performing specific movements or targeting specific points on your body. Do what feels best and stop if what you are doing is making your pain or discomfort worse;
For a deeper massage, use a muscle roller or other massage tool. To release deep tension in your muscles while getting the beneficial effects of a CBD oil massage, use a tool like a roller, tennis ball or muscle roller;
You can also use massage tools that relieve pain and tension with heat, vibration or pressure. If you use a tool with electronic components, check the manual to see if it is safe to use with oils, creams or lotions;
Apply the product as often as recommended on the label or as you see fit. How often you should use your CBD massage product will depend on your personal needs. If you experience side effects, stop using the product. It is very rare for CBD to cause side effects or allergic reactions when applied to the skin. However, it is possible that you could react to another ingredient in the product you are using. Stop using the product if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, pain or redness;
