Massage Therapy
What is massage?
Massage is one of the oldest, simplest forms of manual therapy in which muscles and soft tissues are manipulated to improve health and well-being. Massage does much more than create a pleasant sensation on the skin, it works on the underlying muscles, tendons, and ligaments to improve muscle tone, reduce muscle tension and stress and evoke feelings of calmness. Although massage affects the body as a whole, it particularly influences the activity of the musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems. Varieties of massage range from gentle stroking and kneading of muscles and soft tissues to deeper manual techniques.
How does massage work?
When the therapist massages soft tissue, electrical signals are transmitted both to the local area and throughout the body. These signals help heal damaged muscle, stimulate circulation, clear waste products via the lymphatic system, boost the activity of the immune system, reduce pain and tension, and induce a calming effect. They may also enhance a general sense of well-being by stimulating the release of endorphins (natural painkillers and mood elevators) and reducing levels of certain stress hormones.
What are the benefits of getting a massage?
Some of the physical and mental benefits of massage are;
- relaxes the whole body
- loosens tight muscles
- relieves tired and aching muscles
- increases flexibility and range of motion
- diminishes chronic pain
- calms the nervous system
- lowers blood pressure
- lowers heart rate
- enhances skin tone
- assists in recovery from injuries and illness
- strengthens the immune system
- reduces tension headaches
- reduces mental stress
- improves concentration
- promotes restful sleep
- aids in mental relaxation
