Massage Therapy

Healthy Living
Massage Therapy – Indulgence or Investment?
Healthy Habits

There are few greater pleasures in this world than the feeling of a good massage. Feeling tired, sore and stressed? A massage, whether it’s full-body, back or just a head massage, will make you feel refreshed, energetic, relaxed and rejuvenated. Still, for many of us, massages often seem like frivolous expenses. The truth is that massage therapy can be an investment in both our short term and long term health. It not only helps you maintain physical well-being, but it also adds to your mental and spiritual health.

Massage therapy is one of the oldest known remedies used to relieve pain, relax, stimulate, and tone the body. It relies on the use of structured and systematic stroking, rubbing and kneading of the skin, underlying muscle and soft tissues. Massage can be done manually or with the help of mechanical aids to apply pressure, tension, motion or vibration.

If you still need convincing, here are a few more reasons why you should make an appointment with a massage therapist:

Pain Relief

Massage therapy can be used to both correct and prevent pain throughout the body. Muscle soreness and tension is often reduced or eliminated through massage therapy. Deep massage techniques are used to exercise and stretch the body in order to increase joint mobility and prevent cramps and spasms. Repetitive strain, trauma or inflammation can cause adhesions (conditions in which bodily tissues that are normally separate, grow together). Massage therapy combats this condition by encouraging the healing process of injured or overused muscles. It also helps strengthen and tone the muscles to reduce the risk of future injury.

If you are an athlete who experiences sports-related soreness, massage therapy can be especially useful to you.

Reduce Anxiety and Stress

Massages stimulate the body to release endorphins (your body’s natural painkillers) and decrease levels of cortisol (a stress hormone). It relaxes your body and calms your nervous system to reduce mental and emotional stress. Finally, there is scientific proof that a massage will make you feel really good.

As a result of this reduction in stress, massage therapy has been found to help relieve headaches and migraines, and encourage more restful sleep. In addition, studies show that massage reduces anxiety in depressed children and anorexic women, as well as reduces anxiety and withdrawal symptoms in adults trying to quit smoking.

Improved Circulation and Increased Immunity

Massages help improve blood circulation, eliminate toxins and stimulate the lymphatic (immune) system, which can help regulate heart rate and blood pressure.

Research shows higher levels of white blood cells and natural “killer cell” activities in HIV positive individuals after receiving massage therapy.

Softer Skin

Massage can improve the functions of the oil and sweat glands which lubricate, clean and cool the skin. Massage also promotes tissue regeneration, thereby helping to heal scar tissue and eliminate stretch marks. It also makes skin softer and more supple.

Precautions

Certain medical conditions and situations, such as burns, open wounds, cardiovascular conditions, osteoporosis, broken bones or a recent surgery may make it unsafe for you to receive a massage. It is always advisable to inform your doctor or massage therapist about any medical conditions while making an appointment.

Also, if at any time your massage feels uncomfortable or down right painful, speak up right away. Improper techniques, too much pressure and uncomfortable positions can do more harm than good. Finally, always make sure you opt for a qualified massage therapist, even if it costs a little more and is farther than the spa next door.