Benefits of Receiving a Massage
Massage affects the nervous system through nerve endings in the skin which in turn stimulates the release of endorphins which is the body's natural "feel good" chemicals. This release helps induce relaxation and a sense of well being, relieves pain and reduces the levels of stress. By slowing the heart rate, respiration, metabolism and lowering raised blood pressure the damaging effects of stress are reversed. As massage stimulates the blood circulation, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the bodies tissues is improved. It also helps the lymphatic system to flush away waste products. Mobility and flexibility of tense and knotted muscles, and stiff joints are improved.
There are many good reasons a person may desire or need a massage and many more good one's to get a massage:
-
Reduces lower back pain and other bodily aches
-
Helps sooth infants and promotes digestion
-
Increases range of motion in joints
-
Decreases illness-related fatigue
-
Calms aggressive behaviours
-
Decreases depression and helps to promote healthy mind
-
Helps your immunity by stimulating lymph flow- the body's natural defence system
-
Improves recovery after post-operative surgery
-
Alleviates age-related disorders, sleep disorders, and many more emotional and physical problems
-
Eases medication dependence
-
Excercise and stretch weak, tight and astrophied muscles
-
Assists athletes of any level to prepare for and recover from strenuous workouts
-
Improves the condition of the skin
-
Promotes tissue regeneration reducing scar tissues and stretch marks
-
Improves circulation
-
Reduces spasm and cramping
-
Relaxes injured, tired and overworked muscles
-
Releases endorphins- amino acids that work as the body's natural pain killer
-
Relieve migraine pain
In the course of a massage the therapist works the tension out of stiff and sore muscles, while encouraging their client to relax. The benefit of this to the person receiving the massage is that they feel relaxed and are no longer in discomfort while the muscles have loosened and their range of motion has improved. As the muscles are massaged, emotions may be released and it's common for some clients to experience a healing crisis. Studies performed by Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami indicate that the immune system improves with daily massage, white blood cells and neutropil counts increased. Therapeutic massage is used as a treatment for many illnesses and speeds the recovery period after surgery.
Experts have estimated that upwards of 90% of disease is stress related and perhaps nothing ages us faster both internally and externally than high stress. Massage can without a doubt help manage stress which can mean:
In addition, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
Research shows that with massage:
- Arthritis sufferes note fewer aches, less stiffness and pain
- Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow
- Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching and anxiety
- High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety and stress hormones
- Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping
- Preterm infants have improved weight gain
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch, which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders & injuries to alleviating tensions of everyday lifestyles. The medical community is actively embracing bodywork and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners to treat post surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.
