If you've ever had a massage, you probably left the clinic feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Feeling good is just one benefit from seeing a massage therapist. In this article, we look at a few other healthy reasons to book in for a massage.
What is Massage?
The list of massage types is about as long as a massage table. From Hawaiian massage to Thai, Swedish, stone and Indian head massage, there is sure to be a massage therapy to suit your needs.
Massage helps manipulate the body's soft tissues for better circulation, blood flow and healing. The therapist uses a specific technique to apply pressure to the body and bring about relief.
To view massage therapy as nothing more than a luxury or an occasional reward for stressful days isn't quite accurate. Regular massage has benefits that go beyond the physical, as it also supports mental health.
How a Massage May Help You
Given the variety of massage techniques, many scientific studies have delved into the health benefits of massage.
Research has shown that massage can be helpful in the following situations:
After a workout
Massage has been shown to soothe muscles after vigorous exercise. A recent study found that a 10-minute Swedish massage can abate inflammation to help your body recover after exercise.
After work
If you're feeling tired after a long week at the office, a relaxation massage may help relieve stress and desk-related strains and pains. Additionally, a therapeutic massage session can relieve neck pain caused by prolonged sitting in front of a computer screen and leaning your head too far forward. People who work in manual jobs can also reap the benefits of massage, as it releases muscle tension and increases blood circulation.
During pregnancy
Although pregnancy can be an exciting time, it can also cause tension and pain. Specially-trained pregnancy massage therapists can help relieve cramps, aches and insomnia. Prenatal massage is perfect for all stages of pregnancy, especially in the third trimester when the body is carrying more weight. It is believed that massage helps create an emotional bond between a mother and her unborn child, which is key for a healthy emotional foundation for later life. Studies also show that pregnancy massage helps relieve depression and anxiety. Lymphatic drainage involves gentle pressure, hence ideal for pregnant women.
For anxiety
Before reaching for a chocolate bar when you're feeling tense, consider a massage. A University of Miami study found that women who had massage therapy for five weeks had more energy and felt less depressed. Focussing on targeted areas, the massage therapist works on releasing endorphins to calm your nervous system down while also relieving tension. A 60-minute massage also helps increase serotonin production, which leads to an overall feeling of happiness. These factors combined can help lower anxiety levels and worry.
For migraines
Numerous studies have praised massage for its migraine-busting benefits. It's also ideal for people who suffer from tension headaches, particularly when attention is paid to the neck and shoulders. As well as Shiatsu, which works on the nervous system, Indian head massage is ideal for migraine sufferers.
For high blood pressure
A US study found that having a regular back massage may help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. It only takes a 30 or 60-minute massage to loosen your blood vessels, decrease the force of your pumping heart as well as lower the amount of cortisol released by your adrenal glands.
When you're sick
Your immune system gets a boost when you have a massage. A recent study found that Swedish massage increases white blood cells to help your immune system fight disease. Reflexology massage pressure points on the feet (and sometimes hands) that correspond with different parts of the body to assist in detoxification and immune system stimulation are practiced by many massage specialists. They also use acupressure points during massage therapy sessions to stimulate an increase in blood flow to the problem area, promoting faster recovery from illness like the flu.
For a sports injury
Muscle soreness and pain resulting from an injury acquired during a sports event can be easily treated by a certified sports massage therapist. Common types of remedial massage, such as deep tissue massage, are used to reduce the swelling and break up the restricted connective tissue, causing pain and immobility.
In treating acute pain
Massage therapy helps relieve pain in patients suffering from arthritis, cancer, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome and other similar ailments. Massage therapists use massage techniques that target affected muscle groups where the patient has chronic or acute pain. They also incorporate pressure points during massage sessions, which work to break up tight muscles in specific parts of the body where tension is being held so that it can be released throughout the rest of the body.
These benefits aside, perhaps the best reason to get a massage is that it feels fabulous! To enjoy enhanced wellbeing with a massage, find a massage therapist near you.
Originally published on Feb 08, 2013
