Most people don’t need any nudging to go get a massage. We all know it feels good. But did you know there are enough wonderful health benefits associated with massage therapy to stop what you’re doing and go get a massage today?
Relieve Stress
Research has shown that massage therapy can help reduce stress by lowering your heart rate and blood pressure and by increasing the production of endorphins, which are the chemicals in your body that make you feel good. Other relaxation chemicals like serotonin and dopamine are naturally released through massage as well. Stress relief is an excellent reason to get a massage today.
Sleep Better
The Sleep Health Foundation reports that 1 in 3 people experience at least one form of mild insomnia. Lack of sleep can lead to obesity, low job performance and a higher risk of long-term illness. Massage therapy can help you sleep better by increasing the production of serotonin in your body, which is needed in the production of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that helps control sleep and wake cycles. If you are not getting a good night’s sleep, you should go for a massage today.
Lower Blood Pressure
Studies have shown that getting a massage on a regular basis can lower diastolic and systolic blood pressure. If you suffer from hypertension, you should consult your doctor before seeking any type of medical treatment, including massage therapy.
Reduce Muscle Tension
If you experience frequent muscle tension, you should go for a massage. Massage deals directly with muscle tissue and can help release any muscle that may “tighten” or contract. Stress, anxiety, and autoimmune disorders can all contribute to muscle tension. If you suffer from any of these ailments, consider starting with massage therapy.
Reduce Anxiety
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 million adults over the age of 18 suffer from anxiety disorders. One way to reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder is through massage therapy. The University of Miami School of Medicine found that regular massage therapy can lower the stress hormone cortisol and increase the “feel good” hormones serotonin and dopamine. If you or someone you know struggles with anxiety, we suggest you get a massage today.
Decrease Migraine Frequency
If you’ve ever had a migraine, you’ll know how debilitating it can be. Several studies have shown that massage therapy is more effective in migraine treatment than acupuncture. Massage techniques such as aromatherapy can ease migraines. Headache-release techniques can reduce tension in the head, face, and neck; and cryotherapy can address the vascular composition of migraines. If you feel your migraine head on, make an appointment for a massage.
Enhance Exercise Performance
Professional athletes and sports trainers have utilized the power of massage therapy for years. According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), massage improves performance, reduces pain, prevents injury, and can shorten recovery time. It’s no wonder your favorite sports stars routinely use massage therapy. If you exercise regularly, you should consider adding massage therapy to your to-do list.
Improve Cardiovascular Health
You may not know it, but heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. You know that exercise, stopping smoking, and eating a healthy diet are ways to improve cardiovascular health, but you may not realize that massage therapy can also help. Korean researchers discovered that regular massage impacts your autonomic nervous system, which supports the heart. If you suffer from poor cardiovascular health, consider adding regular massage therapy to your routine.
Consistent massage therapy has many health benefits. Together with your regular healthcare regime, massage therapy can help make you the best you can be. No matter what is going on in your life, the things you will gain from massage therapy make it worth your time to get a massage today.