Most people are aware that massage is a nice relaxing treat but massage has so many beneficial properties that it can do far more than just be a once in a while ‘back rub’!!
Massage may be the oldest form of medical care.
Egyptian tomb paintings show people being massaged. There are about 75 common massage modalities used today including; Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Thai, aromatherapy and many many many more. Massage lessens lower back pain, depression and anxiety, and improves sleep.
Below here are my top 5 reasons why massage is so good for you – reaching beyond the special treat.
1 Boosts the Immune System
Whenever you receive a massage, your body releases endorphins, which are natural pain killers. Endorphins also act as natural stress relievers and can boost the immune system. Did you know that massaging and gently pulling on your ears – top, middle, and bottom of outer earlobes – once per day improves your immune system? Try it and see how you get on.
2 Lowers Blood Pressure
Healthy touch of any kind can help reduce the heart rate and lower blood pressure. Some studies suggest that getting a massage may help calm the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for raising your blood pressure in response to stress. In addition the use of Aromatherapy essential oils can also increase this reduction in the heart rate as some essential oils such as rose, rose geranium, jasmine and lavender can naturally lower the blood pressure (always seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist).
3 Struggling to sleep?
A 60 minute massage is about the same as 7-8 hours of sleep to your body. Massage naturally influences the body’s production of serotonin which is essential for the production of melatonin the sleep hormone. Because melatonin influences the sleep stage of an individual’s circadian rhythm, a natural way of boosting serotonin is a beneficial to help deep sleep.
4 Increases Athletic Performance
Massage improves an athlete’s flexibility, enhances speed and power, and reduces risk of injury. This is because a massage – particularly a deep tissue massage stretches and lengthens the muscle fibres, breaks down adhesions and scar tissue from old injuries (which can reduce the range of movement). By releasing the build up on tension in the muscles and fascia which surrounds the muscles, the soft tissue and joints will become more flexible and muscle tone will be improved.
5 Stimulates the Brain
Massage stimulates the brain as well as the body. Regular massage promotes a healthy brain function through the applied pressure to the muscles, which stimulate receptors in different areas of the brain.
So if you feel that you are struggling to sleep, suffer from muscular aches and pains, suffer from stress, want to improve your sports performance then why not get yourself booked in for a regular massage??
My name is Julie Elder and I am a complementary therapist/yoga teacher at Totally Holistic Health. I am passionate about helping your body stay healthy in a natural and holistic way.
To find out more information on how I can help you please feel free to check out my website at www.totallyholistichealth.co.uk.