Health knowledge made personal
Join this community!
› Share page:
Go
Search posts:

Five Benefits of Massage

Posted Dec 21 2008 3:44pm

Ever since I discovered I had heart disease, I treat myself to a monthly massage to keep my stress in check and to relieve muscle tension in my neck and shoulders.  While at first I thought it was a luxury, I came to realize that taking care of my body was one of the most important things I could do for my overall health.  If you’ve never had a massage or you are constantly under stress in your life, I suggest you put some money aside into a “Be Good To Your Body Fund,” and try it.  You won’t regret it.

Here’s an article by Kelly Kilpatrick on how massage can be beneficial to relieve stress and management pain.

5 Benefits of Using Massage for Stress and Pain Management

Stress and anxiety can create tension in our bodies that can ultimately lead to debilitating pain.   Therapeutic massage is one method of managing stress and pain that many people have begun to turn to.   There are many benefits of using therapeutic massage for stress and pain management, five of which will be explored in further detail in this article.

Target Areas of High Tension

Most people carry their stress in certain parts of there bodies, like their shoulders, neck, or legs.   Over time, this can create painful knots in the muscles, resulting in limited range of motion for the person suffering from this stress-related condition.   A licensed massage therapist can help target these tense and knotted areas, ultimately helping people to feel better and learn how they are creating these knots in the first place.

Releases Endorphins

As you undergo a therapeutic massage, painful knots in muscles will be targeted, triggering the release of endorphins into your bloodstream.   Endorphins are the human body’s natural painkillers and help fight pain while simultaneously helping the patient feel a sense of euphoria and release as a result.  

Eliminates Harmful Toxins 

As muscles knot and twist from stressful conditions and situations, they store harmful toxins in the fibers of the muscles.   Receiving a massage from a licensed massage therapist can help release these stored toxins as the knots in the muscles are manipulated.   Once the knot is worked out, the body works to eliminate these toxins rapidly.   It is important to drink plenty of water after your massage to help expedite this process.

Reduces Overall Stress and Anxiety

When giving a therapeutic massage, many licensed massage therapists will use a variety of techniques to help you to relax.   There are several methods that will help achieve this end, including calming music, aromatherapy, and even scented oils that trigger relaxation centers in the brain.   Allow the therapist to take care of you while communicating with them throughout the massage itself.   Massage ultimately helps reduce stress and anxiety levels, bringing about good feelings and a peace of mind like no other.

Improves Circulation

Another result of receiving a therapeutic massage is that your circulation will improve significantly, especially to those areas that had previously been knotted up and storing toxins.   Good circulation in your body will help deliver oxygen-rich blood to areas that have been suffering for some time and carries many other health benefits as well.

  This post was contributed by Kelly Kilpatrick, who writes on the subject of massage. If you are interested in receiving a certification in massage therapy, her website is  National Massage Certification.   She invites your feedback at kellykilpatrick24@gmail.com

Post a comment
Write a comment:

Related Searches