BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY

Massage therapy has a wide range of benefits, including:

Relaxation/Stress Reduction – Massage therapy has been shown to decrease the levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body. This allows the body to recover faster and allows for a healthier overall immune system.

Lower Blood Pressure – Long-term studies have shown that engaging in a routine massage therapy program can lower blood pressure.

Muscle Relaxation – One of the main purposes of massage therapy is to reduce muscle tension. By relaxing the muscles, the body is more flexible, and circulation is improved. With improved blood circulation, affected muscles receive added nutrients and oxygen to promote healing, reduce stiffness, and reduce swelling. Additionally, endorphins (“feel good” hormones) are released which boosts the body’s serotonin levels and eases anxiety and depression.

Posture Improvement – When muscles are tense, they contract. This contraction can pull on various parts of the body, resulting in poor posture. For example, if the pectoral muscles are incredibly tense, this can result in rounded shoulders. Reducing the tension in the pectorals can alleviate the stress placed on the shoulders and upper back leading to less overall pain.