People, who have received a massage, know that massage is a relaxing and pleasant experience. Massage involves manipulation and rubbing of tendons, muscles, ligaments, and skin. You may not realize it, but massage offers several emotional and physical benefits when it is done regularly. There are several types of massages like Swedish massage, deep-tissue massage, Thai yoga massage, hot stone massage, and several other de-stressing and relaxing massages. These massages can help in treating several health conditions like cancer, depression, sports injuries, and ADHD symptoms. Massages may not replace medical treatment but they definitely benefit the mind and body when done on regular basis.

Benefits of Massage

Regular massage may feel indulgent and extravagant but its an excellent tool for maintaining your health. Here are some important reasons why you should not miss your next massage session.

Counteracts the drawbacks of sitting

Sitting for long periods of time can lead to several health problems. Your posture suffers, neck and shoulder become tense, and your lower back becomes weak. These muscular imbalances in the body can lead to dysfunction and pain. Getting regular massage can correct these imbalances, reduce pain, and improve muscle function. This means that getting a pleasant and simple massage will reduce muscular pain, improve range of motion, and reduce the risk of exercise-induced injury.

Supports Immune Support

Studies have shown that regular massages improve the immune system and decrease the release of stress-related hormones that lower immunity. A study conducted by New Jersey researchers on college students found that stress level of students who received massage was lower than students who did not receive any massage. Students had better immune system and were less anxious about their exams when they received massages. Actually, stress is a silent destroy of a strong and healthy immune system. Luckily, stress hormone Cortisol which damages the immune system decreases with regular massage.

Reduces risk of anxiety and depression

In a study published in US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health it was found that women who suffered from breast cancer felt less depressed after receiving regular masses. Researchers also found that massage helped in increasing the level of happy hormones like serotonin and dopamine while reducing the level of stress hormones. So, if you are feeling low, treat yourself to an invigorating massage and reap the hormonal benefits of therapeutic human touch.

Reduces Blood Pressure

In a study conducted by Department of Adult Health – Iran and Isfahan University of Medical Sciences it was found that, massages not only lowered blood pressure in a few hours following the session, but also helped in maintaining blood pressure for several weeks. The immediate reduction in heart rate was about 8 bpm. These incredible results clearly prove that incorporating massage in your life on regular basis can help in reducing blood pressure.

Improves sleep pattern

Regular massages encourages the release of hormones such as serotonin that aid in relaxation. Regular massages help people spend more time in deep sleep which is known as the most restorative stage of sleeping cycle. Study conducted on women with insomniac postmenopausal showed that massages helped in improving sleep pattern and promoted relaxation. If you are suffering from insomnia, massages can help you relax and improve your sleep pattern.