Benefits of Massage
Massage is one of the most ancient forms of healing. The first writings on massage appear to have been made around 2000 BC. I
find it interesting that the ancient Greeks and Romans used massage to maintain
health. Massage was also used to promote healing. The
benefits of massage and bodywork are diverse and wide-ranging. Massage is beneficial
for many chronic conditions, including low back pain, neck pain, headaches, arthritis,
bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity suppression,
depression, and more. Massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of
everyday living that can lead to illness.
There are more than 250 modalities of bodywork
and most practitioners make use of various techniques. The application of these
techniques may include, but is certainly not limited to, stroking, kneading, tapping,
compression, vibration, rocking, friction, and direct pressure to the soft
tissues of the human body. I may also employ non-forceful passive/active range
of motion and/or stretching techniques.
Touch is the one sense the human body cannot
live without. Studies have shown that in the absence of touch people of all
ages can become sick, depressed and immune compromised. Infants deprived of
touch can wither and even die. Research continues to show the enormous benefits
of touch therapies like bodywork and massage. Benefits of touch therapy range
from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to
alleviating the tensions of everyday life. The medical community is beginning
to embrace bodywork. Bodywork and massage are becoming an essential part of
hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. There are even hospital-run
spas and wellness centers. Many medical facilities are beginning to recognize
the usefulness of massage in treating post-surgery or pain patients as an
integral part of the recovery process.
How
Massage Works
Massage practitioners will use an assortment of specialized techniques
to encourage healing and promote relaxation. Most clients also notice an
increase in flexibility and range of motion immediately following their first
session. When a muscle is injured or contracted, other muscles surrounding the
affected area brace or guard in response which in due course can eventually throw the entire body
out of sync. Massage helps to improve blood circulation, decrease pain and
inflammation, relax the muscles, and makes you feel better.
Invest
in Yourself!
Just because massage feels like a pampering
treat does not mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a
necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your
practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs. Budgeting
time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in
your health.
Benefits
of Massage
Alleviates low-back pain
Relieves headache pain
Lessens depression and anxiety
Improves range of motion and increases joint
flexibility
Improves circulation
Enhances immunity by stimulating lymph flow
Stretches weak, tight, or atrophied muscles
Reduces spasms and cramping
Relaxes and softens injured, tired, and
overused muscles
Helps athletes of any level prepare for, and recover
from, strenuous workouts/competition
Promotes tissue regeneration, reducing scar
tissue and stretch marks
Reduces post-surgery adhesions and swelling
Releases endorphins—the body’s natural
painkiller
Decreases anxiety
Enhances sleep quality
Improves concentration
Reduces fatigue
Bodywork can have profound effects. In response
to bodywork, physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body. With
bodywork:
Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches, less
stiffness and diminished pain
Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function
and increased peak air flow
Burn injury patients report reduced pain,
itching, and anxiety
High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower
diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones
Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased
water retention and cramping
Preterm infants have improved weight gain
Aside from being very effective in relieving
stress, research shows bodywork can help with a variety of health conditions,
including:
Arthritis
Headaches
Back pain
Sports injuries
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Temporal Mandibular Joint Dysfunction
Fibromyalgia
Tendonitis
Golfer’s elbow
Frozen shoulder
Tennis elbow
Whiplash
Sciatica
Chronic and acute pain
Circulatory problems
Depression and anxiety
Musculoskeletal disorders
Digestive disorders
Sleep disorders
