Massage therapy is a powerful tool for improving physical and mental health. It can help reduce stress, relieve muscle pain, and improve flexibility. It can also help with digestion, sleep, and even cellulite. But what exactly does massage do to the body?One of the immediate benefits of massage is a feeling of deep relaxation and calm.
This happens because the massage causes the release of endorphins, the brain's chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of well-being. Deep tissue massage offers both physical and psychological benefits. Unlike other massage techniques that focus on relaxation, deep tissue massage helps treat muscle pain and improve stiffness. But it can also help you relax mentally. The number one benefit of massage is stress relief, according to experts.
Studies have shown that massage therapy can lower stress hormones, such as cortisol, and promote relaxation. Massage therapy is also a great recovery tool for sore muscles after a tough workout. Massage therapy can also be beneficial for women with PMS. Rachel Beider, owner of Massage Williamsburg in New York, offers a “moon cycle massage” to help alleviate emotional and physical symptoms. Studies have also suggested that massage may increase flexibility in the ankle joint and plantar flexors. Your therapist will explain why you're coming to visit them, ask you about the level of nudity you're comfortable with, and should check with you to make sure you're applying the right amount of pressure throughout the massage.
Stress affects the digestive system, and a full body massage can have a very healthy effect on the way the body processes food and nutrients. Classic Swedish massage includes an optional abdominal massage that acts directly on the large intestine to regulate the final stages of digestion. Cellulite is difficult to eradicate and, although no one has claimed that massage will eliminate it, it may be able to improve the appearance by improving circulation, redistributing fat cells and draining excess body fluid. Massage can help lower cortisol levels, returning the body and mind to a more balanced state. Unrestricted breathing is one of the quickest ways to reduce stress, and your first breath on the massage table can turn into a sigh of relief. Scientists have found that therapeutic massage can help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and sleep better. Thai massage is considered to be an effective technique for reducing back pain and relieving joint pain, while improving flexibility and range of motion.
If you have a low pain threshold or are looking to relieve tight muscles, Swedish massage is more gentle and may be a better option. Once you've discovered exactly what you're hoping to get out of your massage therapy sessions (whether it's for pain management or just a spa-like experience), experts suggest using the American Massage Therapy Association's therapist locator to find someone qualified in your area.
