The coronavirus pandemic is causing many people to experience stress like never before.

Fear of getting sick or facing a job loss, worry about the economy, and anxiety egged on by social media and negative news can be risk factors for mental and physical health.

“We encourage everyone to consider how massage therapy can be a powerful tool to provide relief, boost your morale and improve your general well-being,” said Heidi Locknane, owner of Body & Sole Massage Therapy and Reflexology Center.

The staff of licensed massage therapists at Body & Sole have noticed signs of pandemic-related stress among their clients, especially muscle pain, tension headaches and fatigue.

“Getting a body or foot massage can help release hormones that encourage relaxation and ease tension,” she explained. “It also can improve circulation, energy and alertness, while lowering your heart rate and blood pressure.”

Regular massages also have been shown to make the immune system stronger, as demonstrated in various scientific studies, she noted.

Ms. Locknane encourages new patients to make an appointment and experience the benefits of massage.

Much physical labor, she pointed out, as well as office habits like sitting hunched over a computer for hours, can be harmful to the body.

“They are little things, but they all build up with daily activities. You don’t realize how it is affecting you until you get that relief.”

Ms. Locknane listed several other reasons to get a massage:

•Sleep better

•Enhance exercise performance

•Ease symptoms of depression

•Help chronic neck pain and lower back pain

•Increase range of motion

•Decrease migraine frequency

•Improve balance.

“Getting a massage is one of the top recommended methods of self-care,” she said.

“Many of us are experiencing symptoms that can be dangerous to our health and decrease our enjoyment of life. We believe the healing techniques of massage can improve your quality of life.”

The massage therapists specialize in reiki, reflexology, lymphatic and oncology focused massage, deep tissue and sports massage, neuromuscular and deeppressure massage with hot stones, Thai massage, along with facials, for a full spa experience.

The massage therapists are glad to explain these techniques and how their different approaches can help clients, she said.

Natural cures with essential oils are another option in treatment and services available at Body & Sole.

“We welcome anyone who wants to learn more about all the benefits of essential oils,” Ms. Locknane said.

“We can show you how to use essential oils, and use them safely.”

“Schedule an essential oil consultation to learn about the uses of essential oils, and how they can help you meet your health and wellness goals.”

Body & Sole offers a variety of retail items - –doTerra essential oils, custom blends, diffusers, Sacred Earth organic cream and foot cream, and Bonita Bead bracelets.

For more information or to make an appointment at Body & Sole, 214 Louisiana Avenue, Perrysburg, call 419-873-7653 or visit their website at bodyandsolemassage therapy.com.