In an age of technical and, at times, impersonal medicine, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on the body’s natural ability to heal itself. So what exactly are the benefits to receiving regular massage and/or bodywork treatments?
- Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.
- Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body’s natural defense system, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer.
- Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body’s largest organ – the skin.
- Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles
- Reduces spasms and cramping
- Increases joint flexibility.
- Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level.
- Releases endorphins – the body’s natural painkiller – and is being used in chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain.
- Reduces post-surgery adhesions and edema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred.
- Improves range-of-motion and decreases discomfort for patients with low back pain.
- Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases the need for medication.
- Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion.
- Assists with shorter labor for expectant mothers, as well as less need for medication, less depression and anxiety, and shorter hospital stays.
Fun Facts!!!
****A one hour massage equates to 7-8 hours of sleep on the body.
**** By massaging and gently pulling on your ears- top, middle and bottom once p/day increases your immune system and protects your organs and tissues. As all of your Accupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine points are located within each ear.
**** Bob Hope lived to be 100 yrs young, and is believed to have had therapeutic massage daily as part of his healthy regimen.
**** People with eating disorders who received massage three times a day for ten days, gained weight faster and got out of the hospital six days sooner than those who didn’t.
**** Massage before an athletic event, improves the athlete’s flexibility, enhances speed and power, and reduces risk of injury