Author: Lester Rivers

Massage

Why Massage Matters: The Science Behind the Soothing Touch

Lester Rivers

After a tough workout, it’s important to take some time for yourself and relax. Flow State Massage is an excellent option – it can energize muscles and improve overall recovery.

Massage

Studies show that massage lowers cortisol and increases oxytocin, which is a feel-good hormone. It also enhances the parasympathetic nervous system response that slows heart rate and blood pressure and decreases inflammatory responses.

Poor circulation can have a wide range of detrimental effects, including memory problems, pain in the arms and legs, fatigue, digestive issues, and even blood clots. Massage increases the flow of blood and lymph through your body, thereby helping your organs and tissues get the oxygen and nutrients they need to work properly.

A massage consists of pressure being applied to the body’s muscles and joints. This pressure stimulates the blood vessels and the nerves that control them, and it also causes the muscles to relax. The relaxation part of the process helps to relieve tension, which in turn reduces circulation issues.

The muscle relaxation also triggers the release of the hormone endorphins, which help to diminish pain signals from the brain. The exact endorphin release varies from person to person, however. This means that while some people might experience a very powerful effect, others may feel only a mild or minimal impact.

Another way that massage can increase circulation is through the stimulation of the lymphatic system, which carries metabolic waste away from the muscles and into the glands where it’s filtered out of the body. The kneading motions of massage, especially those used in Swedish technique, have been known to stimulate the lymph flow.

Finally, massage can increase your blood’s circulation by causing vasodilation, which is the expansion of your body’s blood vessels. This allows your blood to circulate better and flushes toxins out of the body.

There’s a lot of research out there on whether or not massage really does improve your circulation. The truth is that it depends on the type of massage and your individual body. The best way to know if a particular massage will benefit you is to try it out and see for yourself.

As a general rule, light or medium-pressure massage techniques that move toward the heart are good for increasing your circulation. Vigorous tapotement movements like cupping, hacking, beating and pounding are stimulating, however, and they might not have the same benefits for circulation as more gentle or soothing techniques. Trigger point massage, which involves squeezing and releasing tight or knotted muscles, might also have an effect on circulation, but there isn’t a lot of research to back this up.

Reduced Stress

Stress is a natural response to any perceived threat, but the way we deal with it can be detrimental to our health. In addition to causing muscle tension and increasing the risk of injury, chronically high levels of stress can lead to depression, anxiety, heart disease and weight gain. Massage helps to reduce this stress by lowering the heart rate, relaxing the muscles and releasing feel good hormones.

A study conducted by researchers found that massage decreases the level of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. The study also shows that massage increases the level of serotonin, the “happy hormone,” and improves mood and emotional stability. Another way that massage can lower stress is by stimulating the lymphatic system to remove metabolic wastes, which can build up in the tissues and cause swelling, muscular fatigue and a restriction of movement. Massage increases the elasticity of tissues, which allows the muscles to move more freely and prevents the formation of scar tissue in damaged areas.

Studies have shown that when a person is stressed, it can tighten the muscles of their back and neck, which can lead to poor posture and discomfort. When the muscles of these areas are relaxed, they can return to their normal posture, reducing tension and stress levels. Massage can also increase a sense of well being and enhance sleep quality, both of which are important for decreasing stress and improving mood.

In addition to calming the nerves, massage can help to relieve pain by triggering the release of feel good hormones and blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. Adding aromatherapy to a massage session can also encourage the body’s production of these hormones by using different scents that stimulate the sense of smell.

A therapeutic massage can also increase feelings of connection and affection, which are associated with the feeling of being loved. This can reduce a person’s sense of isolation, which is one of the major causes of stress. While it might seem like an indulgence, adding therapeutic massage to your routine can actually help you live a longer and happier life by lowering the level of stress and anxiety that can damage your body, mind and mood.

Increased Flexibility

Whether you want to improve your flexibility for a specific sport, or simply for the comfort of moving more freely, massage can help. Many people find that the increased blood flow during a deep tissue massage, along with the friction applied to the muscles, helps to elongate the muscle and soft tissues. Any style of massage that involves myofascial release or breaking down adhesions in the soft tissue can be useful for increasing flexibility.

The elasticity of the muscles and connective tissues is also improved with massage by the warming up of the muscle. This increases the pliability of the muscle and can make it easier to stretch. The friction and vibration of massage can also break down adhesions that can form in the muscle and restrict movement and range of motion.

A number of studies have shown that incorporating massage into an athlete’s routine can reduce the negative acute effects of static stretching on performance. A study compared the SS protocol (static stretching alone) with the SSM (static stretching followed by massage) and found that although static stretching decreases jumping performance, massage alleviates this effect.

The researchers of this study believe that this is due to the increase in temperature and elasticity of the muscles that occur during massage. This allows the muscle fibers to move more freely and decreases the likelihood of injury. Massage also stimulates the release of endorphins in the body which act as natural pain killers, further decreasing the chances of injury and allowing the muscles to move more easily.

Other research suggests that massage can help to lower the levels of lactic acid in the blood which can cause pain during and after exercise. Studies of the effect of massage on lactic acid in athletes have found that after a short-term (20 minute) massage, lactic acid was significantly lower than in a control group without massaging.

It’s important to plan ahead for a massage session. Obviously it’s not a good idea to book one before an important presentation, children’s party or three-hour drive up the M6 to visit your ex-husband – but if you can do it, then you should! Try to schedule your massage for a time when you can relax and enjoy it. You’ll get much more out of it if you can give yourself time to wind down afterwards, too.

Reduced Pain

Many people find that the pain associated with certain health conditions can be reduced through massage. Whether this be the chronic pain of arthritis or the acute muscle injury a massage can provide relief.

Pain reduction occurs through a number of mechanisms within the body including the activation of the body’s natural painkillers and the increase in the blood flow around the area of the injury. Massage also causes an increase in the release of positive hormones such as endorphins and serotonin which act to reduce stress levels increasing relaxation which can further help with pain management.

A massage increases the blood supply travelling around the body which in turn promotes a better exchange of substances between cells, bringing fresh nutrients into tissues and removing waste products. This helps in decreasing the inflammation caused by an injury allowing the injured tissue to heal quicker.

Another way a massage can decrease pain is by encouraging the circulation of lymph fluid that helps to carry metabolic waste away from the tissues. This is especially useful for those suffering with chronic illness as this waste can build up in the muscles causing pain and stiffness.

Massage has been shown to decrease the levels of cortisol which is a key indicator of stress and therefore can significantly reduce pain levels. A study found that massage can also lower the perceived need for pain medication when used in conjunction with other treatment.

A massage can also increase the temperature of both superficial and deep muscular tissue enabling them to relax more easily. This is achieved through the friction techniques used during a massage which creates an increase in blood flow to the tissue, warming the muscles and the layer of fascia (a tough fibrous connective tissue) surrounding them. The increased temperature also helps to ease the tension in the muscles reducing tightness and easing flexibility. This increased flexibility can also help in reducing the symptoms of some health conditions. Various studies have shown that massage can aid the healing process, improve self-image and increase emotional well being in those with chronic physical disabilities or terminal illnesses. Some of these positive effects can also be seen in individuals receiving massage for non-pain related issues such as anxiety and depression.

Roofing

The Importance of Roofing Maintenance

Lester Rivers

Roofing maintenance helps prevent water leaks, increases energy efficiency, and adds value to your home or building. It is also an excellent preventative measure against pest intrusion.

Roofing

Check caulking around chimneys and vent pipes for cracking, which can let in water. Clean gutters regularly and trim back tree branches to avoid scraping the roof surface. Contact Corpus Christi Roofing CO for professional help.

The first step in any roofing maintenance routine is a thorough roof inspection. The spring is the best time to do this, as it allows the inspector to spot any wear and damage that developed over the winter. This enables prompt repairs to be scheduled, reducing the risk of further deterioration and costly damage during the summer.

Inspect for any shingle damage, such as bald spots or shingles that are starting to curl up or fall off. Look for signs of leaks or moisture in attics and other areas of the house, such as water stains on ceilings. Check the condition of gutters and downspouts, ensuring they are secure and free from debris that could cause clogs. Check that all chimneys and skylights have proper flashing, as leaks commonly occur in these areas. Look for moss or algae growth, which retain moisture and can lead to rot.

While a roof is designed to withstand the elements, it’s essential that any weaknesses are identified and addressed as soon as possible. If the issues are left unchecked, they can escalate into major problems that threaten the structure and safety of occupants. A damaged roof is also more likely to fail during severe weather conditions, increasing the risk of property damage and injury to occupants.

Homeowners can benefit from the preemptive approach of a spring inspection, as it reduces the risk of leaks, moisture damage, and structural compromises that could worsen under the pressure of summer storms. Furthermore, the moderate temperatures of the spring allow homeowners and roofing professionals to conduct inspections comfortably.

As a general rule, it’s recommended that roofing maintenance be done twice a year. Aside from the importance of a timely inspection, this helps to ensure that the roof is in good working order and ready to protect the home during the hottest and coldest seasons. A double-check in the spring and summer also provides the homeowner with peace of mind that their roof is capable of surviving whatever the weather throws at it. A properly maintained roof is a critical part of any home, and should be considered an investment that adds value to the property.

Summer Inspection

The summer season is typically associated with outdoor fun and relaxation, but for homeowners, it’s the time to focus on home maintenance tasks that keep their homes cool and safe. One crucial area that often gets overlooked is the roof. A routine summer inspection can prevent costly repairs and early roof replacement, safeguarding the home interior from water infiltration and damage.

Hot and humid weather wreaks havoc on roofing materials, with direct sunlight and UV rays causing shingles to become brittle and discolored. Damaged shingles and broken tiles can also allow water to penetrate the roof, damaging drywall and insulation. In addition, moisture in the attic can promote mold and mildew growth that negatively impacts indoor air quality.

A professional roofer will carefully inspect the entire roof, noting any areas where a new layer of shingles or other repair work may be required. This inspection can also identify insulation problems and verify proper attic ventilation to regulate temperature and avoid humidity, which can lead to mold and mildew.

During a summer inspection, a roofer will look for signs of heat damage such as warped and curled shingles and faded color. They will also check for displaced or missing shingles and broken flashing. These issues can allow water to seep into the building, damaging drywall and insulation and resulting in high energy bills.

Inspecting the roof in the summer also gives professionals a clear view of the condition of the underlayment, which is critical for preventing water leaks. Leaky or damaged underlayment is a common cause of roof leaks, so it’s important to address this issue quickly and effectively to prevent a full replacement of the roof.

Commercial roofs undergo a heavy burden from harsh weather conditions, making pre-summer inspections a critical preventative measure. Performing an inspection during the summer allows experts to identify and address any vulnerabilities before they are exacerbated by summer storms and extreme temperatures. A proactive approach to roof maintenance saves money and extends the lifespan of a commercial roof, protecting the building’s structural integrity for years to come.

Fall Inspection

As winter approaches, a thorough autumn roof inspection can identify and address problems that could worsen as snowfall and freezing temperatures take hold. This can save money on emergency repairs and extend the lifespan of your roofing system.

During an inspection, a professional will look for signs of damage and check that all gutters, downspouts, venting systems, flashing, expansion joints and other components are in good condition. They will also look for any areas where the attic insulation is covering eave and ridge vents, as this can lead to ice dams in the winter.

A sagging roof is another common concern, and it’s important to note any signs of this early on. This often indicates substantial damage to the roof, which can lead to leaks or a collapsed roof. If the issue is left unchecked, the problem will worsen and become more costly to repair in the future.

An inspection will also examine the roof for cracks, dents and other signs of damage that can be caused by wind or hail. The condition of the shingle surface should be assessed, as well. Any shingles that are damaged or loose should be replaced to prevent moisture from penetrating the roofing structure and causing other issues.

Depending on the type of roof, a professional can also inspect the interior of the attic and make sure all penetrations are properly sealed. This includes things like vent pipes, roof vents, media installations and other items that create holes in the roof. These penetrations are usually covered with boots, sealants or flashing to keep water out.

The condition of these must be inspected to ensure they are up to code, and the inspector can advise you on any work that may be needed.

For workers on a commercial roof, fall protection system inspections are essential to help protect them and reduce the risk of falls. EDGE professionals can inspect anchors and davit arms to ensure that they are in good working condition, that the system layout is safe and that the appropriate personal protective equipment has been selected and fitted correctly for each worker.

Winter Inspection

When it comes to keeping your home safe and warm, roof maintenance is an important part of homeownership. Performing regular roof inspections and addressing any damage as soon as it’s found helps prevent costly repairs, ensures safety, and extends the lifespan of your roofing system.

Winter is a particularly harsh season for roofs, as snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can cause significant wear and tear. An inspection after the winter season can help homeowners identify any vulnerabilities or damage that may have occurred during the cold weather, including loose shingles and leaks. This enables prompt identification and repair, helping avoid expensive water damage.

A winter inspection is also a good time to address energy inefficiencies in the home. For example, drafty windows can cause higher heating costs and condensation on the walls of a home could indicate poor ventilation in the attic. A roof inspector can check for the presence of these problems in the colder months and make recommendations accordingly.

While a roof looks unattractive with a layer of snow piled on top, it is actually easier for an inspector to evaluate the condition of the shingles during the winter. A thorough inspection can include examining the gutters and downspouts for any clogs or deteriorating seals that could allow water to enter the home.

An inspector can also examine the attic for sagging insulation, which is inefficient and drives up energy bills. A poorly insulated attic can also lead to the formation of ice dams, which can further damage the roof and cause water leaks.

A roof inspection can also include a look at the chimney, flashing around vents and skylights, and seals and caulking around roof penetrations. Cracked or deteriorating caulking and seals can allow water to seep into the house, while missing shingles and shingle curling may be signs of aging and need for replacement. An inspector can also check for icicles hanging from the gutters, which are a sign of potential ice damming and can damage the roof and gutters. Finally, an inspector can inspect the attic for pests, such as rodents and insects, which can gain access to the home through holes in the roof or walls.

Home Improvement

Finishing Basement Adds Value to Your Home

Lester Rivers

If your basement is a dumping ground for boxes of off-season clothes and dusty toys, it’s time to declutter. This will also make room for the new carpet, LVP or tile that will bring the space together.

Finishing Basement

Next, professionals will install utilities like electric wiring, plumbing pipes and air ducts in the walls. This is highly regulated work and should only be performed by experts. Call Finishing Basement Lehi for trusted advice.

Finishing the basement is a great way to add value to a home and create practical new living space. The layout and design choices you make are critical in creating a space that is functional, comfortable and enjoyable for family members of all ages. While there are a few small things that need to be considered (such as whether drywall or plaster is best and whether to use carpet or hard flooring), the big decisions—like which rooms will be in the basement, how they will be used, and what kind of lighting and storage solutions are required—will have the biggest impact on the finished space.

If the basement will be a family room, consider creating an open layout that is welcoming and easy to navigate. Avoid putting internal walls up, as these restrict airflow and can make the space feel closed in. Instead, arrange a large sectional or other comfy furniture to form the main seating area. Then place a wall-mounted TV and other entertainment components around the seating area. Fill in the gaps with shelves, cabinets and other storage to maximize functionality.

Then plan the remainder of the space to meet your needs and budget. If you want to turn the basement into a playroom, for example, choose soft flooring materials to mitigate noise and keep kids from hurting their feet on the concrete. If you’re planning a basement office, on the other hand, you can choose to go with a durable hardwood that’s easy to clean and maintain.

Once the layout is established, review it with your contractor to ensure that all necessary construction and renovation work is included in the contract. Also, be sure to discuss if any additional work is required to bring the basement up to code—such as installing a vapor retardant and ensuring proper drainage.

Depending on your budget, you can dress up the walls in your finished basement with a variety of decorative ideas. Embossed wallpapers and faux stone are one option, but you can also experiment with different paint techniques. Sponging, rag painting and lime wash can all give your walls a rustic or cottage-style look that’s perfect for the basement. Another great way to add texture to the walls is with a mixed wood wall. These affordable panels are a great alternative to traditional drywall and will help give your basement a more custom look.

Framing

A finished basement is a great way to expand your living space, make your house more livable and increase its value. It’s also a good place to install a kitchen, bath and bedroom. If you plan to sell your home, the extra living space will attract buyers and help you get a higher price for your property.

A basement framing project requires a lot of attention to detail. You’ll need to frame around obstructions like support posts, pipes and electrical wiring. Make sure to leave enough room for access for maintenance. Also, don’t forget to add insulation and a vapor barrier.

The best way to frame a wall is to use wood treated with alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ), which resists moisture and rot. Local building codes often require the use of ACQ-treated wood where it touches concrete, including floor plates and joists.

Most basements have a lot of mechanicals, such as hot- and cold-water pipes and HVAC ductwork. Don’t modify these without consulting a professional. Instead, finish them with framing and drywall. This will hide them and keep them from looking ugly.

To avoid hitting these mechanicals when laying out walls, snap chalk lines to mark both sides of the bottom plate of the studs. Also, be sure to account for different plate lengths. Some may extend out past foundation walls while others will run into soffits. This is especially important when building partition walls.

When you frame inside corners, turn the last board on the first wall sideways and overlap it about halfway past the connecting wall. This will give you a surface to fasten drywall and prevent the corner from pulling away from the wall over time.

While you’re working on walls, don’t forget to frame a window. Local code requirements dictate that you must include an egress window for emergency escape. The window must be a specific size and have a certain sill height to ensure that firemen can climb through.

One alternative to standard framing is to build your walls with prefabricated panels that combine vapor barriers, insulation and framing in one 4-inch-deep product called DRICORE Smartwall. They’re available at some home improvement stores.

Utilities

If your basement is a cold concrete box filled with off-season clothing and other clutter, finishing it can add much-needed livable space to your home. Adding a bedroom, spare bathroom, recreation room, or kitchenette is an easy way to increase the value of your property.

While it’s possible to do a little DIY with basement renovations, the bulk of the work must be done by professionals in order to ensure that your finished basement is safe and complies with local codes. When it comes to utilities, a basement remodel requires new electrical wiring, plumbing, and sometimes air conditioning. These items should be installed before you begin construction to prevent costly and time-consuming mistakes down the road.

Depending on the intended use of your basement, you may need to install an egress window. These windows are designed to allow firefighters and occupants to escape from the basement in case of a fire or other emergency. Besides egress windows, you will also need to add light fixtures to illuminate the space. Recessed can lights are a popular choice, but you can also opt for wall sconces and other types of lighting.

Your basement can be insulated to help keep it at a comfortable temperature and lower your energy bills. You can use a traditional fiberglass insulation or choose a more sustainable option such as ThermaCork or aerogel. These sustainable materials are also fire-resistant and waterproof.

A basement ceiling can be left unfinished, painted with a contrasting color, or covered with a drop-ceiling. A drop-ceiling is a grid system on which lightweight tiles or panels can be suspended from the ceiling joists. This type of ceiling is a cheap and convenient option that allows you to easily access the pipes and wires overhead. Alternatively, you can cover your ceiling with drywall for a more refined look.

When it comes to choosing a paint color, keep in mind that lighter colors will open up the space and make it feel bigger while darker shades create a more cozy atmosphere. Be sure to apply a few coats of paint, waiting for the previous layer to dry before applying a new one.

Painting

Adding drywall, windows and doors, electrical work, and paint can make a basement more appealing to prospective buyers. It may also add a lot of value to your home. It is also a much faster and less expensive option than adding an addition. However, keep in mind that you may not recoup about a quarter of the cost of your project in the event you decide to sell the property.

If you’re looking to get the most value out of your finished basement, the best way is to design it as a space for entertainment and socializing. You can create a home bar, a playroom for the kids, or a game room to host friends and family. The options are endless.

A finished basement is a space in your home that has walls, a ceiling, and a functioning heating and cooling system. It can also include a bathroom, laundry room, and kitchen. The finished basement must be connected to the rest of the house through a staircase that is permanent and safe. It must also be insulated. The floor should be either tile or wood. Carpet is not recommended because basements are more susceptible to flooding and mold growth. The basement should also be tested for radon.

To finish a basement, you must first remove any exposed pipes and beams. Once the space is clean, you can paint the ceiling. There are several different options for the ceiling, but a drop ceiling is usually the most affordable. This ceiling does an excellent job of hiding exposed pipework and floor joists, but it is not as attractive as a drywall ceiling.

If you’re not a fan of the industrial look, you can also choose to leave the ceiling unfinished. However, you’ll need to find a way to conceal the exposed electric wires. A simple solution is to use a spray painter to cover the wires with a dark color that blends in. Just be sure to do this over a drop cloth to protect the walls and prevent splatters. You can also wrap the wires with aluminum foil to help disguise them.