Walking as Self-Care: How the Solaris Massage Walking Club Enhances Mobility, Recovery & Wellness
What does Walking Club have to do with Massage?
Walking as Self-Care: How the Solaris Massage Walking Club Aligns with Massage Therapy
Self-care comes in many forms, and at Solaris Massage, we believe in a fitness-focused approach to wellness. While massage is often seen as a way to relax and rejuvenate, movement is just as essential for maintaining overall health. That’s where the Solaris Massage Walking Club comes in—a WEEKLY ACTIVITY that aligns with the philosophy behind Swedish Massage and its roots in movement-based therapy.
The Connection Between Massage and Movement
Swedish Massage, often considered the foundation of modern massage therapy, was originally part of a broader system of health known as Swedish Gymnastics. Developed by Per Henrik Ling in the 18th century, Swedish Gymnastics emphasized three components:
Military Gymnastics – Strength-building movements similar to martial arts.
Educational Gymnastics – Calisthenics for balance and self-control.
Medical Gymnastics – A system that included massage and movement therapy to support healing.
Massage was not just about relaxation but rather about supporting the body's natural movements and improving circulation, mobility, and flexibility. The idea was that passive movements (massage) and active movements (exercise) work together to optimize wellness.
Walking as an Active Form of Self-Care
While massage therapy is an excellent way to support recovery, reduce stress, and improve circulation, walking provides many of the same benefits in an active way:
✅ Improves Circulation & Lymphatic Flow – Just like the effleurage strokes in Swedish Massage, walking encourages healthy blood and lymph movement.
✅ Enhances Mobility & Flexibility – A regular walking practice helps maintain range of motion, reducing stiffness and keeping joints healthy.
✅ Boosts Mental Well-Being – Walking, especially outdoors, lowers stress hormones and enhances relaxation, much like a massage session.
✅ Strengthens Muscles & Prevents Injury – Gentle, regular movement helps the body stay limber and strong, reducing the likelihood of muscle tension and pain.
Why Join the Solaris Massage Walking Club?
The Solaris Massage Walking Club was created to offer a space where community members can come together and enjoy the benefits of movement in a supportive and encouraging environment. Just like a massage session, a good walk is a reset for both the body and mind.
Here’s how walking and massage complement each other:
🚶 Walking helps prevent pain and stiffness → 💆 Massage helps relieve pain and tension
🚶 Walking increases circulation and movement → 💆 Massage enhances blood and lymph flow
🚶 Walking is a proactive approach to wellness → 💆 Massage is a restorative approach to recovery
By integrating both massage and walking into your wellness routine, you’re taking care of your body in a well-rounded, intentional way.
Massage and Walking: Both Under the Wellness Umbrella
Historically, fitness and massage have been seen as separate industries, but at Solaris Massage, we recognize that they are two sides of the same coin. And if that coin had a third side, it would be eating well. Whether it’s through a Swedish-inspired full-body massage or a social walk with our club, both activities contribute to overall well-being. We’re thrilled to offer a weekly FREE event in Kansas City where people can take charge of their health in multiple ways.
Join Us!
If you’re looking for a simple and enjoyable way to incorporate movement into your self-care routine, come walk with us! Whether you’re recovering from an injury, looking to improve your fitness, or just want to enjoy the benefits of walking with a like-minded community, the Solaris Massage Walking Club is here for you. We meet at the shop on Mondays at 1pm and walk at a moderate pace for about one hour.
🌿 Let’s move together. Let’s heal together. 🌿
Follow us on social media for updates and reminders, and check out our events calendar on our website for the current walk schedule. And of course, don’t forget to book your next massage session to keep your body feeling its best!
