Benefits of Massage

What Is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is the systematic and scientific manipulation of the soft tissues in the human body. Massage therapy is performed to obtain and maintain state of good health. Massage is one of the oldest professions known to man. The first records of massage and healing touch date back to 3000 B.C. The ancient Eastern Cultures were the first to practice massage. Chinese manuscripts, dating back to the first century A.D., are the earliest known documented records of massage.

What Are The Benefits Of Massage and Bodywork?

This list of benefits is not definitive. There are so many benefits, that it would be impossible to list them all here. Below is a list of conditions that massage therapy and bodywork treatments will help by:

• Alleviating low-back pain and improving range of motion.
  


• Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
  


• Improve systemic circulation.
  


• Ease dependence of pain and other medication.
  


• Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow-the body's natural defense system.
  


• Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
  


• Help athletes prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts (sports massage).
  


• Improve the condition of the skin, which is the body's largest organ.
  


• Increase joint flexibility and movement.
  


• Lessen depression and soothe anxiety.
  


• Promote tissue regeneration, reducing new scar tissue and stretch marks.
  


• Release endorphins that work as the body's natural pain killer.
  


• Relieve migraine pain.

What The Experts Are Saying

Close to ninety percent of all disease is stress related according to some experts. Stress can age a person both internally and externally faster than anything else. In an ideal world, there would be no stress and anxiety. We don't live in that world. What we do live in, is a fast paced, hurried lifestyle that breeds stress and anxiety. Massage can help manage the pressures, stress and anxiety of today's world. Clients have reported a sense of well-being and clarity after receiving a massage. This happens because massage helps promote an emotional balance between the mind and body.

Massage, A Powerful Tool

It doesn't matter how you describe massage therapy and bodywork. Whether it be therapeutic, pampering, rejuvenating, or even good for the soul. The reasons we seek this form of holistic medicine (pain management, stress relief, or a luxurious treat) is for the benefits massage provides. Massage therapy can be a powerful tool in your health care plan.

Your Benefits Are Increased With Frequent Visits

Receiving massage frequently is more beneficial than you may think. Some people may argue that you don't need frequent massage and bodywork treatments. This could not be farther from the truth. Frequent and regular massage therapy can play a big part in how healthy you feel now, and later in life. Invest in your health by budgeting time and money for bodywork, keep your massage intervals consistent. Massage therapy should be a continuing part of your health care plan. It may feel as though you are pampering yourself, but remember massage is therapeutic. It just happens to have a pleasant side effect, it feels good! Work with your therapist to establish a plan that will best fit your needs.