Massage . . . We all know it feels good, but the evidence suggests that it does a lot more. According to research, therapeutic massage actually improves health and increases real well being. But don’t take it from us – listen to the science!
- Massage reduces stress: In a study from Emory University, people who received weekly massages had measurably lower levels of stress hormones than controls. Patients who received massages twice weekly had even lower stress hormone levels, and they also had higher levels of oxytocin – the feel-good hormone that inspires love between mother and child, as well as between partners. Rock on regular massage!
- Massage relieves anxiety and depression: A review of more than a dozen studies concludes that massage therapy can relieve depression and anxiety, says Prevention magazine. Massage increases serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that can improve mood. According to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry: “Massage therapy is significantly associated with alleviated depressive symptoms.” Sounds good to us!
- Massage eases pain: In the hands of a skilled clinician, individuals suffering from chronic pain or certain types of injury can experience relief from massage. One study, cited in USA Today, showed that people with lower-back pain who received a massage once a week for 10 weeks felt and functioned better than those who received standard medical care. They also used fewer over-the-counter pain medications. Take that big pharma!
- Massage lowers blood pressure: Another recent study shows that Swedish massage can lower blood pressure in patients with borderline hypertension, according to study cited the National Institutes of Health. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure was significantly lower in massage patients when compared to a group that just relaxed. Results persisted three days post massage. So the health benefits go on . . .
- Massage can help those with chronic or life-threatening conditions: Massage helps to enhance the mood of patients who face life-threatening and / or chronic diseases. For example, back massage given during chemotherapy was shown to reduce both anxiety and acute fatigue in this study from Applied Nursing Research, Similar results have been seen for patients fighting HIV or suffering from Fibromyalgia.
So what are you waiting for? Book an appointment today for a massage that will make you feel warm and fuzzy from head to toe – and improve your health and well being in the process.