Health Benefits of Massage Therapy

We all know a massage feels great. And, we often hear how a massage is good for our health. But what are the health benefits of massage therapy exactly?

There is always more research being conducted. I have taken some of the more well-known research into account. And, used some of my own knowledge from years of giving and receiving massages.

The University of Miami School of Medicine specialize in the area of touch therapy. They have a team of researchers studying the effects on individual’s psychological and physical health.

This research has been invaluable in adding weight to the positive effects of massage therapy that everyone who has experienced one knows exists.

Health Benefits of Massage Therapy

Studies have proven that infants who are massaged regularly gain healthier weight quicker than infants who are not.

They also sleep better, show signs of being more alert, learn and take in information quicker, and form a stronger relationship with their parents.

In contrast, children who do not receive touch massage develop slower, go on to be more volatile as adults and do not learn as quickly.

Understanding how starting at an early age can encourage so many positive effects should have opened your eyes. Here are some other positive benefits to carry on receiving massage therapy throughout your life.

Massage Therapy Helps Reduce Aches and Pains

Studies have shown that massage does not only help with routine aches and pains. It helps reduce the effects of chronic pain. Specifically in your neck and back.

It can also treat migraines, headaches, and tension headaches. People who suffer from chronic migraines have often tried all kinds of medicine without luck. Then they find that a massage is very effective.

Other conditions that are notoriously hard to treat with medicine, yet massage helps a great deal with include; arthritis, fibromyalgia, and muscle and tendon damage.

Managing your pain with massage means fewer medications. Medications always carry some form of side effects, whether or not you’re experiencing any right now.

The dependency on pain meds can have an adverse effect on your life, so finding a natural alternative should be high on your agenda.

Massage Therapy Speeds up Recovery after Surgery

Recovering from a surgery can take a long time depending on the surgery and the person. This is an uncomfortable and trying time for most. Yet the recovery process can be cut down significantly with massage therapy.

Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis that affect the tendons can be soothed. They can be painful conditions to live with daily. So having some pain relief can make a huge difference to someone’s quality of life.

Massage therapy can also lessen the appearance of scars after surgery. Or scars and stretch marks from general injuries along with essential oils.

Massage Therapy Aids Physical Conditioning

Regular massaging can improve your overall well-being, health, and physical condition, acting as a natural form of detoxification.

You will see an improvement in the circulation, the quality of tissue, and your body will be working more optimally.

Some other benefits massage therapy offers for your health:

• Joint flexibility and ease of motion are increased.
• Soothes muscle and tendon pain.
• Helps adjust posture, joint alignment and balance.
• Immune function is strengthened.
• Blood pressure is reduced, along with heart rate.
• The pains and discomforts of pregnancy can be lessened.

Massage Therapy Helps with Moods and Mental Wellbeing

As I wrote earlier, there are various benefits to infants and children. Massage therapy is also incredibly beneficial to us throughout the rest of our lives.

Here are some ways massage has a positive effect on your mood and mental well-being:

• Stimulates more oxytocin – a feel good hormone.
• Aids with better sleep and relaxation.
• Raises mental alertness and awareness.
• Boost natural energy, and helps boost mood.
• Reduces the symptoms and effects of depression and anxiety.

When receiving regular massage therapy as part of your lifestyle you will experience all of these positive effects.

Having a massage isn’t just a pampering or luxury activity. It has a wide range of health benefits, not only physical by metal too.

You can relieve stress, lessen anxiety, reduce the effects of depression, there really are a lot of benefits making it a worthwhile addition to any healthcare.