Why have a Massage?

With its origins dating back thousands of years, this form of treatment has long been popular for relaxation and relief from tension & pain. But can it really offer much more than short term relief and relaxation?

Here are the TOP 5 benefits of massage -

1. Boosts Immune System

Following a research study it was found that people who received a 45-minute massage had an increased number of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that play a large role in defending the body from disease. In addition massage was also seen to decrease levels of cortisol, a stress hormone.

2. Improves Well being

Due to the decreased levels of cortisol, the body response to stress will be reduced. Helping to manage such things as blood pressure, resume normal digestive function, improved mental health and reduced muscle tension.

3. Pain Relief

Therapeutic massage may relieve pain in several ways. Firstly through relaxing painful muscles, tendons, and joints. As above it decreases cortisol, relieving stress and anxiety and it may also be helping to "close the pain gate" by stimulating competing nerve fibers and impeding pain messages to and from the brain. Tensions within parts the body can also lead to secondary pain such as headaches which when released can reduce pain.

4. Improves Sleep

By providing relief from pain, reducing stress, improving overall well being and relaxing the muscles in the body this will bring the body into a calmer state. This may also allow the mind to relax and let go of worries and anxieties allowing for a betters nights sleep.

5. Improve Physical FitnessMassage can to reduce muscle tension, improve blood circulation, flush out toxins which can prevent injuries, speed up recovery and may improve overall performance.

Massage should form part of a regular wellness routine, booking an appointment at least once every 4 weeks to really feel the benefits. If there is a specific condition that you are working on you may wish to book a block of treatments at once a week or fortnightly to feel the benefits from massage sooner. I would not recommend that you have a massage more than once a week.

REFERENCE

https://www.livescience.com/34910-massage-benefits-immune-system-100908.html

www.spaexperience.org.uk

https://www.health.harvard.edu/alternative-and-complementary-medicine/therapeutic-massage-for-pain-relief

https://www.nuhs.edu/news/2014/10/the-top-5-health-benefits-of-massage/