Physical Benefits of Massage Therapy

Physical Benefits of Massage Therapy

After a long day, a massage can help you relax and unwind. Your body will appreciate this effective form of stress management. Learn about the physical benefits of this alternative therapy.

Muscle Pain Reduction

Muscle pain can be debilitating for many people. Massage can be an effective tool for relieving muscle pain and tension. After a session, most people emerge feeling calmer and more relaxed. The kneading and circular movements target deep layers of muscle. This can be particularly beneficial for people recovering from an injury.

Improved Immunity

Regular stress can wreak havoc on the body's immune system. A weakened immune system often leads to more illnesses and infections. Regular sessions can help improve immunity naturally. A number of reasons exist for this improvement. First, the kneading movements help activate cytotoxic capacity within the body, which involves killer cells that will fight infection. This process also helps eliminate T-cells in the body, which helps the immune system function more efficiently. Serotonin naturally elevates after a session, which also boosts immunity naturally.

Fighting Depression

When depression hits, a massage might be an effective way to fight it. Stress and unhappiness usually result in elevated cortisol levels in the body. Elevated cortisol levels are associated with depression. However, this type of physical therapy can decrease cortisol levels by as much as 50 percent. An increase in serotonin and dopamine also helps improve and stabilize moods.

Flexibility and Range of Motion

Aging and activity can result in tightened joints. Restricted joints result in a decrease in flexibility and range of motion. This therapy is effective for improving range of motion and comfort with flexibility. The therapist will focus on kneading muscles, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue, and joints. After a session, most people will experience greater fluidity in joints, which can improve comfort and reduce injuries.

Blood Flow and Circulation

Poor circulation results in numerous maladies, including achiness, pain, fatigue, and tense muscles. These kneading motions apply pressure to move blood through various regions of the body. After releasing the pressure, new blood moves in quickly. The pressure also serves to flush out lactic acid from tired muscles. This flushing helps lymph nodes work more effectively to eliminate metabolic waste.

Skin

Enhanced circulation is also beneficial for the skin. After a massage, skin typically glows from the extra blood flow. If the masseuse uses oil, skin will also receive nourishment and hydration. Vitamin E, jojoba, primrose, or almond oil are examples of beneficial oils that will improve skin texture.

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