Blueberries in Massage?

July is National Blueberry Month. For some people going out to pick ripe blueberries with the family in an open field is almost a rite of passage. Eating and gathering those plump, sweet morsels will put a smile on anyone’s face. But did you know that blueberries also have some important therapeutic value? Learn how blueberries are good to eat – but keep you healthy as well.

The first thing that comes to mind when blueberries are mentioned is not usually massage. Most of us probably envision a big bowl of nature’s candy topped with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, eaten while watching fireflies gathering outside on a hot, steamy summer night.

Have you ever thought about carrying that feeling into your massage session? Perhaps as a summer special, adding a bit of essential oil to your massage lubricant or as an added scent to the room.

Taken internally, the blueberry has traditionally been seen to preserve vision, promote urinary health and reduce belly fat. It is known for its high antioxidant qualities, ability to neutralize free radicals in the body and as an immune system booster. Because of its high fiber content blueberries are thought to help in the reduction of bad cholesterol (LDL) and, by extension, reduce heart disease.

If you work in a spa, or have a private practice offering spa-type services, you may want to offer your client a “Blueberry Special,” a Swedish massage using a few drops of blueberry scented massage oil or blueberry essence as aromatherapy diffused throughout the room. Afterwards you can offer blueberry tea and scones or perhaps that nice bowl of blueberries and cream mentioned earlier.

Keeping Yourself Healthy

In addition to offering your clients a summer treat of blueberries, don’t forget to treat yourself as well to big helpings of this healthy morsel. Eating blueberries in season are not just about eating pleasure, there are so many benefits to this little fruit – and taking advantage of them at this time of year can help to keep you mind sharp and your eyes clear. Blueberries have also been shown to contain compounds which inhibit cancer cell growth.

Before you head into the office, try whipping up some blueberry pancakes, stirring fresh blueberries in your yogurt, or simply grabbing a handful on your way out the door in the morning. Your body and mind will thank you.

About the Author

Linda Fehrs, LMT

Linda Fehrs, AAS, LMT is a freelance writer and massage therapy professional licensed by the New York State Department of Education. She is a professional member of the American Massage Therapy Association and the New York State Society of Medical Massage Therapists. Ms. Fehrs has actively practiced massage therapy in the Mid-Hudson Valley since 2002 with a focus on those with special needs, such as developmental and physical disabilities. She is a graduate of the Hudson Valley School of Massage Therapy as well as a former instructor at the school. Prior to becoming a massage therapist she was former managing editor of a weekly community newspaper and is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Ms. Fehrs currently volunteers with the Red Cross, helping to educate others about emergency preparedness and disaster relief.