Benefits of Massage Therapy
Massage is a holistic healing therapy which affects physical health as well as mental/ emotional health. Massage therapy is highly beneficial to people suffering from stress related disorders. The masseur makes the person aware through touch about any tensions he/she may be holding and helps in releasing the physical tensions. This awareness may dispel worry, anxiety, sorrow or irritability associated with unleashed tensions.
The mechanical action of massage is rhythmic due to manual application of pressure. This stimulates nerve receptors and by reflex action causes the blood vessels to dilate so that it facilitates proper blood flow. This increases oxygen carrying capacity of the blood to 10-15% after a massage. Massage loosens contracted muscles and stimulates weak muscles. The gentle stretching action of the muscles and connective tissues that support the muscles and other body tissues, keeps them elastic. This stimulates the secretions and excretions in the body. This is seen in the increase in saliva, urine and gastric juices along with increased elimination of sodium chloride (salt), nitrogen and inorganic phosphorus. This means that after a massage session, the metabolic rate increases.
The effects of massage are also seen on the nervous system. Massage soothes and stimulates the nerves, as per the desired effect required by the person. Massage has a positive effect on internal organs. It stimulates the nerves and dilates blood vessels of these internal organs and thus provides greater blood supply to them.
Massage gives the skin a positive glow and enhances skin health. The skin is kept moisturized and clean due to improved functions of the oil (sebaceous) and sweat glands.
The Benefits of Massage on Health
Positive Effects of Therapeutic Massage
- Improves joint flexibility and mobility
- Treats and relieves pain, stiffness and injuries caused during work or sport
- Stretches and exercises weak or atrophied muscles, reduces muscle spasms and treats musculoskeletal problems
- Improves breathing efficiency by promoting deeper easier breathing
- Promotes tissue regeneration, reduces scar tissue and stretch marks
- Reduces adhesions and swelling after a surgery and supports post surgery rehabilitation
- Improves blood circulation and lymphatic fluid movement and strengthens immune system – the natural defense system of the body.
- Helps to normalize blood pressure
- Relieves headaches and migraine pain
- Lessens pregnancy related discomfort – assists in a smoother shorter labor and reduces maternal hospital stay.
- Research shows that preterm infants have improved weight gain
Mental Benefits of Massage
- Releases endorphins – the body’s natural pain killers and mood uplifters
- Satisfies the need for nurturing through sensation of touch
- Instills calmness, promotes creativity and a more organized thought process
- Reduces anxiety levels, relaxes and relieves stress and depression
- Enhances mental alertness, clear thinking and improves concentration
- Improves energy levels
- Equips you with the ability to respond to stress stimuli appropriately
- Provides a link to the mind-body connection and increases awareness
- Helps to deal with insomnia
- Several emotional benefits reflected in the person’s actions and results
Health Benefits of Regular Massages
The power of bodywork (massage) has profound effects on physiologic and chemical changes throughout the body. Regular massages taken from trained masseurs can be relaxing, invigorating and rejuvenate your health from time to time. A massage pampers you and helps you deal with increased pressures and stress of daily life which can take a toll on your health and wellbeing. Invest on regular scheduled health care by setting aside time and money on such therapeutic massages. Set up a treatment schedule in your health and wellness plan, to meet your customized health needs in conjunction with your family doctor and massage therapist.
