When most people think about getting a massage, they understandably focus on the great physical feeling of relaxation, deep restfulness and overall bodily bliss. But on a deeper, often unseen level, massage is able to deliver substantial benefits that go far beyond feeling great after a session is over. It’s common for people to fall asleep. That’s how relaxing a 30- or 60-minute session of light pressure on the skin can be. Here are just a few of the way’s bodywork can enhance your sense of well-being, promote mental health and possibly prevent some major illnesses:
Improved Mental Health
One of the more recent discoveries about massage therapy is related to mental health. Experts have long suspected that pressure applied to the skin and muscles can do wonders for a person’s attitude. But they never knew how or why that was the case. Studies done in the last decade have shed light on this mechanism. It appears that when large sections of the skin receive light pressure in the form of hands-on touch, the brain responds in ways that enhance mood. This is one reason anxiety sufferers often find relief with weekly or monthly sessions.
It’s easy to consult with an Oakland therapist for unbiased with non-judgement support if you’re stressed to the point of needing outside help. Always speak with a licensed mental health professional if the pressures of daily life are becoming overwhelming. With improved mental health, shoulders will feel less weighed down and the overall outlook on life will be more positive, so sometimes talking through is that extra necessary step, and a massage will then be an added bonus later on.
Better Circulation
It’s hard to notice your blood circulating throughout your body, but enhanced blood flow is one of the more immediate and measurable results of bodywork. And the effects are not just temporary, as was once thought. New research demonstrates that those who get massages every two weeks, or more frequently, enjoy long-term circulation improvement, including more favorable blood pressure readings.
Fewer Physical Problems
Adults who regularly participate encounters fewer physical problems like pulled muscles, sprained ankles, sore backs and headaches. That’s just a short list of the many physical ailments and complaints that a licensed professional can deliver to clients. How does the simple manipulation of muscle tissue prevent other ailments, aches and pains? Massage therapy can lead to overall better posture, which means less back pain, fewer tension headaches and a more efficient walking gait. With improved body mechanics, all sorts of common pains and muscle disorders can be prevented. It doesn’t matter if your aches and pains are associated with over-exertion or an existing health condition, massage can work wonders. When you go to the doctor’s office or a professional physiotherapist, they will use professional equipment like a massage therapy machine so you can get the best results.
Addiction Therapy
Some studies have shown that people who receive regular therapeutic sessions are better equipped to break addictions to tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. It appears that the cyclical calming effect of brief sessions helps the brain build up a type of focus and will power that it otherwise would not have. Later, when people attempt to quit smoking or to cut down on alcohol consumption, it’s easier for them to do so if they’ve been getting regular massages for several months.