Having a massage seems like the ultimate indulgence. Most spas have massage therapists on staff, and it's definitely a luxury for some, but for others, it can treat chronic pain, stress, depression, and other health problems. Having just a 10-minute massage after a strenuous work out can reduce soreness and prevent muscles from being stiff the next day. Even babies can benefit from massage since studies have shown that babies with colic or sleep difficulties are soothed by massage.
It's helpful for psychological benefits as well. Massage can boost the body's production of serotonin and other "feel good" hormones, helping to lift depression and anxiety. While going to a spa or a professional masseuse is not an option for everyone, there are plenty of massage techniques that you can do yourself, after a workout or as part of meditation or relaxation exercises. Taking the time to care for stressed muscles and can calm the mind as well as maintain the body.