Massage therapy has been used as a therapeutic measure for generations, and across cultures around the world. However, different types of massage techniques are designed to target specific areas, dysfunctions, and promote natural healing processes; there are many distinctive benefits that can be received from regular massage.
Mental benefits include a calm mind, increased awareness, better focus and concentration, and increased alertness. Physical benefits range from lower stress levels, improved circulation, and increased flexibility in tense muscles.
BENEFITS OF MASSAGE:
BREATHE DEEPER
Deep breathing is vital to ensure that oxygen circulates easily throughout your body, and encourages healing and growth in the process. Decreased oxygen circulation results in headaches, tension aches, and random muscle pain that can accumulate into a significant problem over time. By enhancing your oxygen intake, you will naturally promote the release of negative energy and toxins within the body
IMPROVE POSTURE
Although massage should never be used as a replacement for a chiropractic diagnosis, posture can slowly and naturally improve as the spine and muscles around the spine become more flexible and supple. Improved posture also aids in breathing and less tension throughout the body.
IMPROVE CIRCULATION
An improvement in both blood and lymph circulation helps your body gain strength and maximizes your energy level. Efficient circulation also helps in muscle recovery, growth, and promotes the healing process.
ENHANCE SINK/MUSCLE TONE
Massage won’t help you increase muscle bulk, nor will it directly increase muscle strength however it increases circulation and assists in decreasing pain and spasms.
INCREASE/PROMOTE JOINT FLEXIBILITY
Repetitive stress on muscles and joints or overused joints can stunt growth and create health problems later in life. Massage helps to relieve stored tension and encourages flexibility of the joints after rest. Any soreness experienced after a massage can be indication that these are tension spots for you, and focusing on these areas on your next massage will increase joint recovery.
ENHANCE A CALM MIND
Encouraging a calm mind creates an avenue for creativity; it is during these times that our minds are most conducive to creative thinking, developing plans, organizing thoughts, and reducing stressful thoughts. Massage can encourage this state of mind by relaxing the entire body.
REDUCE ANXIETY
As a natural deep relaxant, a successful massage can significantly reduce anxiety. Usually, anxiety is stored in some key areas of the body; the lower back, shoulders, abdomen, and neck. By relieving these areas of tension, the mind can ‘let go’ of anxiety and experience a light, almost freeing sensation.
INCREASE SELF-AWARENESS
The mind-body connection is often overlooked in today’s fast-paced society. From the minute you wake up, to the moment you go to bed, it is easy to slip into ‘mind-only’ mode. When you re-establish the connection with your body, you will experience greater ease of movement, a more centered feeling, and an enhanced feeling of well-being. People who are autistic, bi-polar or have sensory difficulties really benefit from massage.
PROMOTE MENTAL ALERTNESS
Although a massage can bring you into a state of deep relaxation, this is also a state of heightened mental alertness. Your mind is relaxed and calm, but acutely aware and in this state, capable of solving even the toughest problems!
INCREASE PEACE OF MIND
With your ability to feel relaxed and naturally aware, peace of mind becomes a necessary result. Peace of mind can be defined as a sense of calm well-being and just feeling good naturally.