Massage therapy is an ancient therapy capable of doing everything, almost everything, like relaxing, loosening the muscles, improving the blood and lymphatic circulation, reducing tension, etc. To massage means to touch and we get healing by massage, primarily the skin. Massage therapy involves manipulating the soft tissues of the body through various massage techniques to achieve a wide range of health benefits. Though it has been practiced in the east for thousands of years, only recently many western medical professionals have begun to recommend patients include massage therapy as part of their overall health plan.
Twelve Important Health Benefits of Massage Therapy
1) A boon for a better life
This therapy of touching makes one feel better, look better, treat others better and treat oneself better.
2) Relieves pain
Pain caused by soreness and decreased flexibility in muscles and tendons can be reduced by regular massaging. Massage therapy stimulates the release of endorphins which are like natural pain relievers in the body. It increases the sense of pleasure in the body and relieves pain It stimulates the nerves in a manner that has a pleasant and soothing effect.
3) Improves blood circulation
Since massage enables increase in blood flow, it helps the supply of nutrients and oxygen to be maximized. One of the major benefits of massage therapy is the increase of blood and lymph circulation.
4) Removal of waste materials
Massage helps the removal of waste products through the increase of circulation. It stimulates the skin, tissues and the inner body limbs.
5) Regulates the digestion system
Massage can facilitate and regulate the digestion and intestinal function by increasing the secretion of saliva and gastric juices and also by increasing the excretion of other juices that slow down the metabolism in the system.
6) Enhances mental stability and immune system
Massage therapy enhances the immune system of the body by increasing its defense hormones and also by increasing the white blood cell count to help fight off disease. Psychologically, also this therapy helps us as it fills the body and mind with fresh energy stimulating the organs with more oxygen resulting in improved power and performance.
7) Stress relief
Massage helps us relieve the effects of stress which cause many psychological problems leading to many dangerous diseases and psychological problems. Essential oils used in massage therapy with some flavor and astringent effect are more popular today as they increase the chemical effects of massage.
8) Relaxation and prevention of pain
This therapy relaxes both body and mind because it provides the patient with an opportunity to rest. The process of physical manipulation is used to relax tense muscles which protects from further troubles. This also reduces stress levels, which can prevent the occurrence of migraines, headaches and cramps.
9) Immediate relief for sports people
This enables sports people to tone up their muscles since they follow a rigorous training routine to improve their skills, stamina, speed and strength in their activities, and helps flexibility of their limbs.
10) Warms up the body for activities and treatment
Massage therapy warms up the body and it prepares the body and mind for a successful participation in physical activities. Massaging conditions the body muscles, reduces anxiety and helps to perform better. It also gets the body ready for further treatments.
11) Rehabilitates the body and mind
This therapy helps recovery from muscle cramps and injuries and rehabilitates the body and mind relieving from pain and anxiety. Further, it strengthens the immune system and aids in flexibility and range of movement.
12) Great boon of women
Massage therapy is a very helpful boon for women as it helps to alleviate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, relieves pain during labor and gives instant relief from leg cramps and other pains.