You don’t realize how much you take breathing for granted until your nose is stuffed up.

As we head into the summer season, many of us may find ourselves struggling with sinus issues due to allergies or changes in weather. Sinus issues can be a common problem for many, impacting daily life and overall well-being. At Heaven Sent Massage of Ellijay, we understand the impact that sinus discomfort can have on your overall well-being.  

In this article, we delve into how specialized sinus relief massage & bodywork techniques can help alleviate congestion and pressure, promoting better sinus health. We also briefly go over other adjunct therapies such as aromatherapy, lymphatic drainage, and reflexology, which can further enhance the benefits of the treatment. 

Keep reading to learn about sinus relief massage and additional therapies and products that can complement this treatment.  

Sinus Massage –

A gentle hands on treatment specifically focusing on the face and along the neck, Sinus Massage uses light, often circular, strokes to the face and neck following the route of the sinuses. Special attention is paid to the areas above and below the eyebrows, and the areas around the nose and the top of the cheekbones, where the sinuses are usually most affected. This calming application is repeated throughout the session in a soothing rhythmic manner that aids in relaxation while promoting sinus drainage, along with reduced sinus pressure. Occasionally, a warm towel or compress, and possibly essential oil(s), is used to aid in relieving pressure and further opening the sinuses for added benefit.

Aromatherapy –

When aromatherapy is used in treating the sinuses, it is usually diffused or otherwise placed in such a way as to be breathed in. Essential Oils such as Eucalyptus, Menthol and Peppermint are implemented to promote sinus drainage and provide nasal relief from congestion. Many of these oils have antifungal and antibacterial properties which are said in theory to help sinus congestion. There are blends, such as Breathe from doTERRA, that combine several oils to relieve the sinuses and aid in breathing easier.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) –

MLD is a gentle, non-invasive technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to help drain congested areas and relieve sinus pressure. It can also reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and aid the lymphatic system in removing waste and “toxins” from the body. When MLD is used to treat the face and neck, the sinuses are also stimulated, encouraging flow and drainage, and potentially relieving inflammation and congestion. This method of treatment also uses light, rhythmic application that many clients find relaxing.

Reflexology –

Reflexology can help relieve sinus congestion by applying pressure to specific points on the feet and/or the hands that correlate to areas of the body, such as the face, neck, and eyes. For example: The upper ridge of the toes, particularly around the base of the big toe, corresponds to the sinuses. Gentle pressure applied here is said to help clear a stuffy nose and relieve sinus pain.

“I work well under pressure
as long as it isn’t sinus pressure”

AT HOME CARE 

Along with the treatments already mentioned, home treatment and remedies can go a long way into helping you feel better, quicker. 

Antihistamines – Antihistamines work by blocking the body’s production of histamine, which can cause symptoms such as runny nose, coughing, throat irritation, and more. Although antihistamines are specifically used for allergies, they can reduce symptoms of sinusitis such as sneezing and itching, making them worth a try.

Avoiding Dairy – Drinking milk is thought by some to stimulate the production of mucus and make congestion worse in people with a cold or sore throat. For some people, dairy can also seemingly add to inflammation. It is suggested to decrease or avoid dairy altogether when experiencing illness, and instead increase consumption of water, electrolytes, herbal teas, and broth to aid in thinning nasal secretions, while adding to nutrition and hydration.

Nasal Sprays & Rinses – Nasal sprays and/or rinses can help with sinus symptoms by reducing inflammation and helping clear mucus from your nasal passages. Different types of nasal sprays can help in different ways, such as working as a decongestant, reducing inflammation, or soothing mucous membranes. Saline rinses work by clearing out the passages and loosening mucus.

Spice – Some spicy foods can help with temporarily clearing the sinuses as they trigger sinus drainage. Other spices contain natural decongestants (i.e. Ginger, Cayenne) and help ease mucus from the upper respiratory passages.

Steam – Dry air & dry sinuses can increase sinus pressure and irritation. Steam can aid in adding humidity back into the air, and thus the nasal passages. Taking a hot shower, breathing over a steaming bowl of water, and using a humidifier are all ways to add moisture back into the nasal passages.

Tea – Hot liquids like tea can help relieve sinus symptoms by opening nasal passages, thinning mucus, and soothing sore throat. Some herbal teas specifically contain natural antimicrobial, antihistamine, and/or anti-inflammatory compounds, such as ginger, peppermint, or chamomile teas. Honey, added to sweeten the tea, also contains properties that help to soothe and relieve sinus and allergy symptoms.

Rest – Symptoms associated with the sinuses, especially when an infection is present, can resemble those associated with a cold or flu virus. When sinus problems are severe, especially when a fever is present, rest is strongly recommended. Resting will enable the body’s energy to go towards healing and other tasks beneficial to your health.

Of course, it is always recommended to check in with your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment or medication.

Breathe easier this summer
and enjoy the season to its fullest.

If you’re looking for natural and effective ways to address sinus issues, one or more of these treatments may be for you.

_{(If your sinus issues worsen or persist longer than a couple weeks, are severe/debilitating,
occurs along with fever or other symptoms, or is “new” or “different” in any way, please consult with a physician.)}