Indianapolis businesses offer unique ways to celebrate National Relaxation Day
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Businesses in Indianapolis are helping Hoosiers cure the pandemic blues as National Relaxation Day kicks off Saturday morning.
Some stores are saying they have seen a specific interest in products and services that cater to relieving stress.
“Our business is growing actually since we reopened,” said Lexi Althouse, retreat director at Massage Heights in Fishers.
Althouse says more customers are now asking for stress-reducing massages after months of being in quarantine.
“They have tension in their neck and shoulders more than normal,” said Althouse.
For people not ready to venture out, Mitch Nelsen, a lead massage therapist at Massage Heights Ironworks says there are plenty of ways to reduce stress at home.
“If you have 30 minutes, try a lavender salt bath soak for 15-20 minutes and then do some light stretching after,” said Nelson. He adds even five minutes is enough time to grab a menthol-based lotion to help ease tension in the muscles.
Other Indianapolis businesses are taking a different approach to easing stress.
Painting with a Twist near 86th and Michigan Road is offering a Zen Collection of painting classes and says there is actual science behind art and relaxation.
“Painting has been known to reduce stress because you can kind of turn off that left side of your brain,” said Peggy Hufford who owns the painting store.
Hufford also notes she is offering takeaway painting kits for the Zen Collection for people wanting to stay home and teacher-led classes are also available virtually.
It’s a move Invoke Wellness Center near 86th and Ditch has also taken on to help people relax while social distancing.
“We have had to adjust, but we created an on-demand platform and have been holding yoga classes outside in a few different locations,” said Jillian McAfee who is the Invoke Studio Director of Operations.
McAfee says yoga is calming but it’s also healthy for the body as it increases flexibility and centers the mind for increased focus.
“If you’re feeling anxious or stressed and don’t have the time for a full class, the most important thing you can do it to sit and breathe, even for 5 minutes,” said McAfee.
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