Everyone loves a massage. That feeling of getting pampered while the stresses of your life melt away is something few things can achieve, like massages. However, these experiences aren’t just relaxing and offer numerous health benefits.
Regular sessions can improve your physical health and mental wellbeing and help you relax. There are so many surprising health benefits of massage therapy, and we’re about to reveal them.
Physical health benefits of massage therapy
Indulging in that daily massage might seem like a way to treat yourself, but did you know that regular sessions can yield impressive health benefits? So, next time you’re wondering whether to indulge, keep the following positive effects in mind.
The cure to a desk job
If you work in a typical office job, you’re more likely to suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive strain injuries. Research also shows that people who spend most of the day at their computers are more at risk than individuals in other jobs (Research Gate).
While ergonomic office equipment and regular breaks can help, a deep tissue massage can work out any knots in your body and remove muscle tension.
If you schedule ongoing sessions, you’ll notice a reduction in pain and be able to make it through the day more effectively.
Immune system boost
We all know that supplements are beneficial for the immune system, but studies have also shown that massages can give it a much-needed boost (NIH). During a massage, the therapist works magic on your body, enhancing blood flow.
Even a single Swedish massage can increase your body’s lymphocytes and white blood cells, which are integral to your body's ability to fight infections.
Reduced symptoms from illnesses
Cancer often uses chemotherapy as its first line of treatment, but the effects can be severe. The most common symptoms include anxiety, nausea, chronic pain and fatigue, but massages can reduce these symptoms by relaxing your body and mind.
Massage therapy is also beneficial for people with fibromyalgia, which impacts the joints and muscles, causing pain and ongoing fatigue. One massage technique, Myofascial release, can help your pain management levels and decrease your symptoms.
Stroke rehabilitation
Strokes can cause lasting symptoms, including reduced mobility, anxiety and reduced quality of life. Unfortunately, they’re common in the UK, and people have a heightened risk of second strokes and heart attacks.
Massage therapy can benefit people after a stroke, as it calms them and alleviates stress. Some sufferers find they have more inflammation, and regular sessions can relieve it.
Boosts the brain
Migraines happen for numerous reasons, including stress, underlying conditions and hormones, leaving many sufferers unable to function. Massages work various trigger points in your body, which - in some cases - can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Perhaps the most surprising benefit of massages is how they can improve symptoms in Alzheimer's patients. While the Alzheimer’s Society says there’s a small amount of research to back these claims, it also depends on the severity of your condition.
However, people with minor memory loss might be able to remember events with regular massages.
The mental and emotional benefits of massage therapy
If you have a mental health condition, you’ll know that stress can trigger the symptoms. Massages are designed to be relaxing and can enhance your mood due to the dopamine and serotonin your body produces.
Let’s look at some of the less-known emotional benefits of massages.
More energy
If you have insomnia or regularly feel lethargic throughout the day, your first port of call is probably coffee or energy drinks. However, consuming them can make you feel jittery and unable to focus.
Having a regular massage is an excellent way to unwind and let your body heal. As the sessions usually remove stress from your body, many people find they can sleep better at night.
You’ll have more energy throughout the day and won’t need to rely on supplements.
Increased confidence
Body positivity has never been more critical in today's social media-dominated society. In reality, many people feel unhappy with themselves and lack confidence.
However, when you get a massage, you’re more likely to unwind and discover the amazing things your body is capable of.
Whether you’ve just gone through a breakup or have low self-esteem in general, regular massages can make you feel more confident and happier with your body.
Better still, you can choose between a male or female therapist, ensuring you’ll be comfortable.
Beating the winter blues
As the days begin to get a lot shorter, it’s common to experience a lapse in mood. You might feel more tired than usual or fail to get joy out of life, which is why so many people invest in special lamps that mimic natural sunlight.
Investing in massage treatments can elevate your mood by releasing feel-good hormones, including serotonin and dopamine.
You’ll come out of each session feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world.
Dealing with personal loss
Death is a natural part of life, but losing someone special can create a range of symptoms as you move through the grieving process. Grief can also cause insomnia, anxiety and depression, making it harder to accept what’s happened.
When you have a massage, your therapist will relax and ensure you can focus only on the moment.
While massages are no cure for grief, you can still enjoy some of the benefits and not have racing thoughts in your mind.
Preventing relapses
Depression can often go away for years and then suddenly come back with a vengeance. If that black cloud starts following you around, it’s an excellent idea to destress and give yourself a break.
Regular massage can help your mind let go and give your brain the necessary chemicals to function correctly.
Final thoughts
As you can see, massage therapy is one of the most effective ways to reduce pain and improve overall wellbeing. Regular sessions can help you feel better, and I Love Massage is the place to go.
We have a range of qualified therapists in London and look forward to helping you work through pain and enjoy total tranquillity.
Please feel free to get in touch today or browse our website to see what makes I Love Massage so special.