Massage therapy has many benefits, both physical and mental. That’s a good thing too, because lacking in either of these areas can quickly feed into the other!
When our mind is preoccupied by pain, uneasiness or frustration, we can hold onto it in our body. How often have you had a sore or stiff neck or other pain and tension after a really stressful day?
Stress and negative thinking can impact the way we hold our posture, how we move, sleep and even how we perceive pain.
Keep reading to find out more about some of the many benefits of massage therapy!
PHYSICAL BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY
Releases tension:
We can feel tension anywhere, and with our modern lifestyles particularly in areas like the neck, shoulders and back. Pain, tightness and stiffness can happen for a wide range of reasons, but often due to the movements and postures we adopt throughout the day. Massage can release tension in these troublesome areas to help us move freely again.
Reduces pain:
Pain is a common side effect of muscles not functioning as they should. Massage can help to reach the deep layers of fascia, ensuring they are moving and gliding as they should and by working to resolve irregularities and adhesions in muscles. Deep tissue massage is fantastic for supporting pain reduction.
Improves mobility and range of movement:
When muscles are shortened, stiff or tight movement is restricted in the joints they cross which can lead to poor body mechanics and pain. One of the goals of massage is to lengthen muscles and restore full range of movement and overall mobility.
Increases circulation:
Massage assists in improving circulation as the pressure created by the massage stroke helps to move blood in and out of the tissues. As this pressure is released this causes new blood to flow in. This can also aid in the movement of lactic acid out of the muscles and the promotion of the movement of lymph fluid which carries metabolic waste away from muscles, resulting in lower blood pressure and improved body function.
PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY
Increases happiness:
Massage has been proven to help stimulate the release of the feel-good chemicals in the brain. A relaxing massage can make you feel lighter, more balanced, content and just plain happier!
Reduces stress:
Increase in the feel good chemicals in the brain, and being able to unplug, relax and take your mind off things is a great way to reduce stress, anxiety and negative feelings.
Increases focus:
The time spent on the table doing nothing but relaxing is just the mental break you need to stop, think and re-evaluate the things in your life. After a massage you can walk away with a fresh perspective and reinvigorated levels of focus.
Improves sleep:
Improving happiness, reducing stress and lowering pain are all great ways to help you get a better night’s sleep. Sleep is when your body recovers, and your brain can decompress. Waking up rested is the best way to face the challenges of a new day!
For any further information please check out our frequently asked questions or give our friendly team a call on (03) 8578 6544. The team at Your Body Hub are here to help you revitalise and thrive naturally.