Massage is beneficial to people of all ages, infants to seniors, and to people from all walks of life: the athlete, the college student, the laborer, the 24/7 homemaker, or the overworked professional.
A therapeutic massage does more than just relax the mind and body. There are certain physiological and psychological changes that occur, particularly when it is utilized as frequent, preventative therapy. Massage not only feels good, but can provide healing and bring positive changes to many areas of your life.
One of the most widely recognized and documented areas of benefit is stress reduction. Experts believe that stress-related tension accounts for 80-90% of diseases that bring people to their family physician.
The Need for Touch
Another component massage provides that is largely absent in our society is tactile stimulation, or simply put, "touch". Touch is a basic human need and we are born ready to touch and be touched. Many older adults suffer from touch deprivation and are rarely touched in a tender manner. Massage can also be beneficial for those who have experienced physical trauma or chronic pain by relearning that touch can be a positive experience. The touch of a skilled massage professional can promote self-image and offer a deeply felt sense of being cared for and nurtured. The feeling of being touched in a safe, caring, compassionate manner can be a powerful experience, reminding the client that she or he is not alone in the world. As human touch connects one person to another, the client and therapist become partners in a healing relationship. One only need experience a good massage to know its benefits to the body and soul.
Benefits of Massage
Pamela J Mayle, LMT, NCTMB, CIMI
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Increases circulation which delivers more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs
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Stimulates the lymph system which is the body's natural defense against toxic invaders
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Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles. After vigorous excercise, accumulation of waste products along with micro-traumas in the muscles can leave a person feeling tired and sore. Because massage increases circulation, waste products are removed, bringing in nutrients to speed healing of muscle tissue
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Provides excercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion.
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Enhances restful sleep. Reduced muscle tension promotes comfort and deepens sleep.
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Improves posture and coordination by releasing restrictions in muscle, joints, and surrounding fascia. This frees your body to return to a more normal posture.
Other benefits of Massage Therapy:
