Massage Therapy Benefits
Massage therapy benefits people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly.
It is one of the oldest forms of therapy and consists of soft tissue (muscle) manipulation and movement.
It is known for helping the injured, ill and stressed, but is becoming regarded as excellent at preventing illness and sustaining health and wellness.
Physical, emotional and mental balance and clarity often result from a therapeutic massage session.
A massage therapist may use a variety of techniques on the soft tissues or muscles, some of them being kneading, tapping, compression, stroking, rocking, friction, vibration and pressure.
Massage Therapy Benefits:
- Increases circulation which can speed healing by increasing oxygen and nutrients into tissues and organs
- Lengthens and stretches muscles
- Reduces muscle spasms and cramping
- Helps prevent strains and sprains
- Lowers blood pressure
- Releases 'feel good' endorphins
- Stimulates the immune system by increasing lymphatic flow
- Enhances mind relaxation
- Improves sleep quality
- Increases energy and lowers fatigue
- Helps with concentration
- Aligns posture
- Relieves headaches and migraines
- Stimulates tissue regeneration (lessens scar tissue and stretch marks)
- Helps athletes prepare for and recover from strenuous workouts and competitions
- Lowers stress, anxiety and depression
- Improves complexion and skin tone
- Lessens dependence on medications
- Eases tension, stiffness and muscle pain
- Encourages joint mobility, body flexibility and increased range of motion
- Faster recovery from post-surgery adhesions and swelling
- Easier and shorter labor for expectant mothers
- Shorter maternity hospital stays
- Weight gain and increased development for premature babies
It is estimated that approximately 90% of diseases are stress related.
If there is a natural way for us to help our bodies fight off disease, and become stronger and healthier, shouldn't we pursue it?
Massage therapy benefits too many systems, organs and functions in our bodies to be ignored.
There are over 250 types of massage. Research continues to prove the enormous benefits of massage therapy.
Even the medical community is beginning to embrace the healing aspects of massage and therapeutic bodywork. Many hospitals, hospice facilities and neonatal ICU's are incorporating massage in conjunction with other medical treatments.
Numerous research studies show specific physiological and chemical changes occur throughout the body with massage.
Taking part in regular massage therapy as health care can contribute to your overall youthfulness and well-being.
Massage shouldn't be viewed as a luxury, a splurge, or 'treat' on a rare occasion.
It must be looked at as preventive care and an investment in your health.
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