Massage therapy is a great way to reduce stress, relax muscles, and improve overall health and well-being. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, from back pain to headaches. Massage therapy is also believed to induce a relaxation response, which reduces heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure, boosts the immune system and, in general, decreases the physical effects of stress. The immediate benefits of massage include a feeling of deep relaxation and calm.
This is because massage causes the release of endorphins, the brain's chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of well-being. Massage therapy is the practice of kneading or manipulating a person's muscles and other soft tissue to improve their well-being or health. It encompasses a wide range of different types of massages, ranging from Swedish massage (the most common type) to massages that have a more specific purpose, such as a sports massage. Health experts at the National University of Health Sciences want you to know the five main health benefits of adding regular massage therapy to your health and wellness strategy: reducing stress and increasing relaxation; reducing muscle pain and tension; lowering heart rate and blood pressure; boosting the immune system; and decreasing physical effects of stress.
A good licensed massage therapist will be able to assess which areas around an injury need massage and which areas are best avoided. In addition to its physical benefits, massage can also be used as an emotional outlet. As people become comfortable with the environment and the therapist, they may discover that their massages are a safe time to share their thoughts and feelings. Massage is also beneficial for babies: research from the University of Warwick has found that it helps them sleep more, cry less, and be less stressed.
If you have a medical history related to cardiovascular disease, cancer, or diabetes, these are things you should report to your massage therapist and see a therapist who has experience with that particular problem. However, there's no proven risk from massage when done by a qualified professional. So if you're looking for an effective way to reduce stress, relax your muscles, and improve your overall health and well-being, consider adding regular massage therapy to your health and wellness strategy.
