What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Massage targets physical aches and pains, locating and releasing knots or ‘trigger points’ in the muscles and connective tissue.
Massage has been proven to relieve tension, reduce stress, relieve anxiety, improve sleep, and enhance psychological wellbeing.
During the massage blood flow to the soft tissues is increased bringing fresh nutrients in exchange for waste products including lactic acid. This is why many professional sports teams incorporate massage therapy to aid physical recovery from training and competition.
In addition, the sensation of touch stimulates receptors in the skin which increases the body’s levels of oxytocin and serotonin. This results in lower stress levels, increased feelings of relaxation, and positively elevated mood. Touch enhances good social and emotional functioning.
Massage is good for conditions of anxiety or depression and all round mental health.
It’s my personal belief that the mental health benefits of massage are among the most positive and enduring.