This afternoon, we went to Chinatown for massages. I have not always really thought massages were particularly useful; they seemed more self-indulgent than anything. But in the last year or so when I have gotten injured from exercise, I’ve realized more how beneficial they can be and have enjoyed the experience much more. I find myself zoning out more and thinking about all kinds of different things during massages. Falling asleep during a massage, while that may sound relaxing, seems like a bit of a waste of money and time.

The other reason I think it’s important is that in a day and age when we are always so busy with endless distractions, social media, our love-hate relationship with our mobile devices, it’s important to have time for self-care and self-reflection. Massage time is perfect for both.