Massage Theraphy
Massage therapy is systematically and strategically manipulating the soft tissues of the human body to produce a relaxed state, as well as alleviating things like pain, discomfort, anxiety, and fatigue,” Christopher Deery, a licensed massage therapist who is board-certified for therapeutic massage and bodywork, says SELF.
- Stress-relief and relaxation
The number one benefit of massage is stress-relief, Deery explains. We need more research to figure out exactly how much massage therapy reduces stress-hormones like cortisol, but anecdotal evidence suggests that massages can help lower stress and encourage relaxation.
- Intimacy between couples
Physical touch does more than simply feel good. As SELF previously reported, several studies suggest that physical touch can lower blood pressure and increase hormones like oxytocin, which makes us feel good. And a small 2020 study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that massages that couples give each other are beneficial for the giver and the receiver. So, even if you’re not looking for a medical massage, if you have a partner and are looking to bond a bit, it’s not a bad idea to break out some massage oil and use it on them (or vice versa).
- Constipation relief
If you’re dealing with constipation or other digestive issues, a stomach massage might help alleviate some of your discomfort. A 2016 study published in Gastroenterology Nursing found that abdominal massages helped people dealing with post-surgery constipation move their bowels and feel a little better.
- Tension headache relief
A tension headache, or concentration headache, can feel like there’s a tight band wrapped around your head, the Mayo Clinic explains. The cause isn’t fully understood, but there is evidence that massages can provide relief for this kind of headache, the Mayo Clinic says. Specifically, it helps relieve muscle tension in your head, neck, and shoulders (which might alleviate your headache symptoms).
- Insomnia (related to stress)
As we mentioned above, massages positively impact stress, and diminished stress levels can help encourage sleep (though there are other sleep hygiene habits—like having a bedtime ritual and reducing screen time before bed—you might want to explore as well).
- Muscle soreness and strain
When your muscles are sore and inflamed, a massage can help bring blood flow to the area (and encourage recovery), according to a 2015 meta-analysis study published in Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine.
- Temporary arthitis and joint pain relief
Arthritis involves swelling and pain in your joints, the Mayo Clinic says. As your massage therapist kneads and massages muscles, blood flows to your joints, which might provide some temporary relief, the Mayo Clinic explains. Be sure to mention that you have arthritis before your massage therapy session so that your therapist can walk you through how you might work together.
- Circulation during pregnancy
Getting a massage during pregnancy can improve circulation, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Just make sure you check with your doctor before booking an appointment and be sure to tell your massage therapist that you’re pregnant (even if you’re not showing).
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