Benefits of Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is an excellent, safe method to deal with stress and physical aches and pains. It truly treats the whole body and in turn, the mind and spirit. It can prevent a small headache from developing into a migraine, relieve back ache before it turns into chronic back pain, soothe unpleasant emotions, and so much more. The list below is far from comprehensive, but gives you an idea of how all-encompassing are the benefits of massage therapy.
Specifically, research to date suggests that massage therapy may:
decrease heart rate, blood pressure and variations in heart rate
promote immune system health and function and overall well-being
increase range of motion
be helpful in reducing pain and other symptoms of fibromyalgia
increase serotonin and dopamine
improve sleep
decrease stress, depression, and anxiety
increase relaxation
improve cognitive and memory functioning
influence levels of multiple hormones including cortisol (hormone released during “fight-or-flight” situations of stress
promote well-being and an improved mind-body connection
