Massage Therapy

There’s no denying the power of massage therapy. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it- pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic or the reasons we seek it- a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management. Massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.

Experts estimate that ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure together in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can without a doubt help manage stress.

In response to massage therapy specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects.

• Alleviates back pain and can improve range of movement
• Enhances the body’s immune system by stimulating the lymph flow- the body’s natural defence system
• Increases joint flexibility
• Lessens depression and anxiety
• Improves circulation by pumping oxygen and nutrients into the tissues and vital organs
• Relaxes tired and over used muscles
• Releases endorphins—amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller
• Relieves migraine pain
• Improves the condition of the skin
• Helps athletes of any level prepare for and recover from strenuous workouts
• Helps to break down tension in tense muscles

• Decrease anxiety
• Enhance sleep quality
• Improve concentration, circulation and energy levels
• Reduce fatigue

• Arthritis suffers note fewer aches aches and pains and less stiffness
• High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety and stress hormones
• Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety
• Pre term infants have improved weight gain
• Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping
• Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow

Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting a massage frequently can do even more. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for a massage at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember just because massage feels like a pampering treat it doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan .

Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch, which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently the medical community is actively embracing massage and it is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.