So many of us know that is it beneficial for us to have a massage. Many of us still see it as a treat but should we make it a part of our health regime?
I know many of my clients over the years saw it as a part of their healthy living regime and really felt the benefits. (That is why they kept coming back).
We know massage feels great and we feel relaxed but what are some of the other benefits? Here are 5 benefits of massage and healthy reasons to book an appointment.
Ease Pain
Massage reduces inflammation and increases blood flow to muscles.
It releases chemicals that act as an anti-inflammatory in our body, you get the same result you would get by taking anti-inflammatory pills and as an effect it boosts your ability to recover from exercise faster.
We all massage ourselves naturally. Think about it, when a toddler bangs his knee when he falls over, he’ll instinctively rub the sore spot.
Likewise, an office worker with stiff shoulders will probably try to massage them. It is a natural reaction that we all do instinctively. Our bodies love massage!
Improve Sleep
If you’ve ever fallen asleep on a massage table, you don’t need to be convinced that a massage can aid healthy sleep. Our body releases chemicals that promote sleep.
A number of studies have examined its effect on delta waves, the kind of brain waves connected to deep sleep.
Massage therapy triggers serotonin, a brain chemical that generates calm and serene feelings. It makes sense that when stress is alleviated, peaceful sleep comes more easily.
Manage Anxiety & Depression
For the same reasons that a massage is relaxing, it can also soothe anxiety and depression. Massage reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol, resulting in feeling happier and often lower blood pressure.
It can also boost the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in depression.
Boost Immune System
Massage therapy boosts immune system by stimulating “natural killer cells”. Therapeutic massage decreases cortisol that destroys natural killer cells, your immune system gets a boost.
An increase in white blood cells and natural killer-cell activity better prepares the body to fight off possible invading cells.
Massage even boosts immunity in those people with severely compromised immune systems. Boosting the immune system aids in the fight against bacteria and infections.
Improving Circulation
Massage improves blood and lymph circulation. This is due partly to the physical manipulation of soft tissue and partly to the chemicals released as part of the relaxation response.
Improved circulation can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscle cells. As cellular health improves, tissues function more efficiently.
As our body is working more efficiently the removal of waste products and may increase the absorption of excess fluids and reduce swelling in soft tissues.
So now you know 5 more reasons to have a massage (plus…there are MANY more) when are you going to make this a part of your health care regime?
You can find much more information on living a holistic lifestyle in these free magazines and on our YouTube channel.
Sharon White
If you would like to learn more and work with me one on one I would love to work with you. I am passionate about people having a voice, being heard and creating the change you want in your life.
You can contact me at sharon@globalhealingexchange.com to see how I can help you. Sharon is the founder of Global Healing Exchange. You can work with her on her Emotional Freedom Program here.
