What Are The Benefits of Massage?

Massage Therapy Can Help Strengthen Your Immune System

Regular massage provides significant benefits beyond immediate relaxation. People with high levels of stress in their lives tend to get sick more than others. Combine stress with lack of sleep, less than perfect nutrition and very busy days, and our body’s ability to naturally protect itself against bacteria, viruses and infection is greatly reduced.

Studies indicate that massage can increase the immune system’s cytotoxic capacity (the activity level of the body’s natural “killer cells”), which improves the body’s immune functioning overall.

Benefits for Your Immune System:
Increases the body’s natural killer cells
Enhances the body’s ability to circulate nutrition, strengthening cells
Circulates lymphatic fluid

Massage Therapy Can Help Improve Circulation

Better circulation is part of the chain reaction that happens in the body as a result of receiving regular massage. According to Eileen Cahalane of “Alive” Magazine:

"A person with poor circulation can suffer from a variety of discomforts, including pooling of fluid in the extremities, cold hands and feet, fatigue and achiness created by an accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles. Good circulation brings damaged, tense muscles the oxygen-rich blood they need to heal."

"Massage facilitates circulation because the pressure of the massage technique actually moves blood through the congested areas. The release of this same pressure causes new blood to flow in. The squeezing and pulling also flushes lactic acid from the muscles and improves the circulation of the lymph fluid, which carries metabolic waste away from muscles and internal organs, resulting in lower blood pressure and improved overall functioning of the body."

Benefits of Massage on Circulation
Enhances blood flow
Moves waste away from muscles and organs
Improves overall functioning of the body

Massage Therapy Can Help Reduce Stress

Stress management is a key component for anyone striving to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Massage therapy has been proven to be one of the most effective methods for reducing stress. Research studies show that massage actually boosts the body’s immune system, which can become compromised from extended periods of stress.

Benefits of Massage on Stress:
Increases endorphins
Enhances sleep quality
Decreases anxiety
Increases energy level
Improves concentration and focus
Reduces fatigue