10 Benefits of Massage that Impact the Mind and Body
Along with the heightened interest of people in wellness, the popularity of massage therapy also increased. The benefits of massage extend from physical to mental wellness–two important aspects that contribute to overall well-being.
Certainly, there’s more to massage than just a few hours of relaxation. Here’s a rundown of the benefits of massage that will give you better insights into this popular treatment.
What is Massage?
In general, massage is defined as the manual manipulation of body muscles and tissues. It is done by pressing, rubbing, or manipulating the skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Light to deep pressure may be applied to the body with the purpose of improving a person’s well-being.
While massage may be performed by anyone, you’ll be more at ease with trained and licensed massage therapists who can help you harness body massage benefits and experience wellness, physically and mentally.
10 Mind and Body Benefits of Massage
1. Massage Boosts the Immune System
According to research, regular massage therapy helps improve the immune system. One of the amazing benefits of massage is its effect on increasing white blood cell activity which boosts the body’s capacity to fight diseases and reduce cortisol.
2. Massage Improves Circulation
Massage promotes increased blood flow throughout the body. It helps improve body circulation and increase lymphatic flow. These body massage benefits contribute to the movement of healthy nutrients in the body and also help filter metabolic waste. Over a period of time, regular massage dilates blood vessels and causes old blood to flow out and new blood to flow back into the tissue.
DID YOU KNOW?
An increased level of lymphocytes in the body can help the immune system fight off harmful substances or toxins.
3. Massage Helps Manage Low Back Pain
Low back pain may not sound too alarming–not until you understand the extent of its impact. Low back pain is the single leading cause of disability in 160 countries. People with back problems have greater difficulty performing daily tasks and may worsen at some point during their lifetime. With the help of body massage, low back pain can be managed and given appropriate treatment. Proper execution of techniques can relieve short-term pain, cause muscles to relax, and increase blood and lymph flow.
4. Massage Lowers Blood Pressure
In connection with the benefits of massage in improving body circulation, it also helps lower blood pressure. In as little as 20 minutes of massage, endorphins are released in the body causing the blood vessels to relax, the intensity of the heart pumping to lower, and the adrenals stopped from producing Cortisol or the stress hormone.
5. Massage Reduces Injury Risk
Through massage, muscle recovery is supported. It helps boost circulation and reduce pain in the affected muscle. Even light massage can aid in muscle relaxation, improve the range of motion, and reduce the risk of injury.
6. Massage Promotes Better Sleep
Quality sleep is essential for a sound body and mind. It improves the immune system and also reduces the chance of acquiring life-threatening illnesses. If you have problems with sleeping, massage therapy can help. It encourages the release of serotonin. This “feel good” hormone is a precursor to melatonin, a hormone that helps people fall asleep. Aside from that, its effect in reducing stress and anxiety also contributes to better and less disturbed sleep.
7. Massage Calms the Mind
Massage affects the mind and improves one’s mood. Using the power of the human touch, it creates a connection that when paired with positive visualization, can make a huge difference in the mood of a person. Massage can help people with Seasonal Affective Disorder cope with their condition. Aside from boosting mood, it also helps increase energy levels.
8. Massage Lowers Depression & Anxiety
The physical benefits of massage also impact the mental state of a person. As it allows muscle relaxation, the mind is able to relax too. When this happens, feelings of stress, depression, anxiety, and even fatigue are reduced.
9. Massage Helps Patients with Dementia
A person with Alzheimer’s disease can also benefit from massage. When done regularly, it helps increase body awareness and alertness. It also reduces feelings of confusion and anxiety.
10. Massage Creates Connection
Physical touch releases oxytocin, also known as the “love” or “cuddle” hormone. Through massage, a connection is made, along with feelings of wellness, ease, and comfort.
ALSO READ: Why You Should Support Health and Wellness Tourism in the Philippines
Massage is an effective technique that impacts overall wellness. The benefits of massage extend to the mind and body. It can aid in relaxation, promote healing, reduce pain, and ease feelings of depression and anxiety.
Nurture Wellness Village is a wellness tourism destination that further supports the benefits of massage. It provides a safe and pleasant environment that is suitable for massage therapy. Experience quality and professional massage in Tagaytay with the help of our professionally-trained therapists. We can help you on your journey towards a healthier, happier, and better mind and body condition.
Leave a Reply