Benefits of Massage
If you’re looking for reasons to book a massage other than the fact it feels great, then look no further. Sure, it can help you relax. But massage therapy can do so much more than that. Massage involves specific techniques that can increase circulation, reduce stress, relieve anxiety, relieve muscle tension, improve sleep and promote relaxation throughout the whole body. Here are eight benefits of having a regular massage.
1, Reduces stress and anxiety
One of the most noted effects of massage is a greater feeling of calm and relaxation. It reduces both emotional and physical stress as well as relieving anxiety. The soothing benefits of massage encourage the release of endorphins – the chemicals that give us that feel-good factor. While at the same time, those horrible stress inducing hormones such as adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol are reduced.
2, Release muscle tension and pain
Specific techniques are used that promote relaxation to the affected muscles and also the body as a whole. Massage also promotes better circulation and blood flow to the area, which in turn increases the oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissues. This helps reduces stiffness and swelling in the muscles and increases flexibility to the joints. Massage also encourages the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller, which then boost the dopamine and serotonin levels in the body. These hormones can help in many ways physically and emotionally, including pain management, faster healing and promote feelings of happiness.
3, Strengthens the Immune system
It’s a well-known fact that people with high levels of stress are far more susceptible to illness. The stress hormones adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol have a direct influence on the immune system and its ability to naturally protect itself against infections and pathogens. studies have shown that massage therapy can boost the white blood cell count which plays a significant role in defending the body from infections and disease. Massage also increases circulation and improves lymphatic drainage, which also provides a boost to the immune system’s effectiveness.
4, Heightens mental alertness
When you receive a massage you are given the chance to totally relax and de-stress, resulting in increased levels of mental clarity and alertness.
5, Improves skin tone
Regular massage therapy can help give you healthy and toned skin, by increasing circulation and reducing tension in the skin and adjoining tissues. Increased circulation in and under the skin can encourage cell regeneration and aid the nutrition cycle. Massage therapy also stimulates sebum production which helps to improve suppleness as well as softens and moisturises dry skin.
6, Improves posture
Massage can help to relieve a lot of tensions, particularly in the shoulder and neck area, common in those who sit a lot or use a computer at work. Chronic back pain is often the result of poor posture while sitting or standing. Being overweight and repetitive movements can also contribute to the strain on the back. Massage allows the body to totally relax and to loosen the muscles made tense by bad posture, the joints will also have greater flexibility and range of motion. This in turn allows the body to naturally re-position itself for an improved postural alignment.
7, Increases joint mobility
Massage therapy helps to releases built up muscle tension around the joints and ligaments. This in turn will increase the range of motion in the joints. When a joint is no longer hampered by stiffness, the muscle function can start to return to normal giving much improved joint movement.
8, Reduces blood pressure
Regular massage therapy has been proven to reduce blood pressure levels. Studies have shown that a regular massage can reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Its also been found to reduce the cortisol levels within the body. Lower blood pressure can help reduce the risk of heart attack and strokes as well as helping with many other health issues.