Massage Therapy and Need Not a Luxury: An Essential Part of Healthcare for All

Massage Therapy and Need Not a Luxury: An Essential Part of Healthcare for All

Studies have shown that many people who receive a massage regularly find that it provides many great health benefits that last even between massage sessions. Historically considered a luxury, massage therapy has become a large part of personal healthcare. Health experts of all kinds now recommend regular massages as a supplement and supplement to health care.

hypertension

High blood pressure (or hypertension) is when blood flows through the arteries at a higher pressure than normal, which can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, or kidney failure. Regular massages help combat the effects of stress, one of the main culprits of high blood pressure, lower blood pressure and maintain the body's natural well-being. Studies have shown that regular massages can help you regulate health problems such as high blood pressure, along with dietary and/or medical treatment prescribed by your doctor. Massage reduces high blood pressure because it stimulates pressure receptors, which trigger action from the vagus nerve, one of the nerves that exit the brain. The vagus nerve regulates blood pressure and other functions. In a 2005 study at the University of South Florida, hypertensive patients who received 10 10-minute massages over three weeks showed significant improvements in blood pressure compared to a control group who simply rested in the same environment without a massage.

relaxation

Do you just want to relax? Massage therapy is a good place to start. Massage's ability to promote relaxation in the recipient is due to its effect on a part of the nervous system called the parasympathetic nervous system. The long, soothing massage strokes message the sensory nerves on the surface of the skin, conveying the message that all is well. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system and allows the body to relax. The heart rate drops, blood pressure drops and stress hormones are reduced. In today's modern, stressful lifestyle, the body is always in fright or escape mode. This constant reactive state puts a strain on our bodies in the long term. Our bodies were not designed to remain in this stress-induced, ready-to-action mode, but living in modern times sends a constant message to the nervous system to keep the body in fight or flight mode. The relaxation that massage brings to the body is a much-needed break from this constant stress.

Hormone balance

Regular massages can help reduce the effects of stress on the body by reducing the stress-related hormones released when stressed. Too many stress-related hormones in the blood over a long period of time can lead to many health problems such as insomnia, heart disease, obesity, diabetes and increased aging rates. Cortisol, one of these hormones, can affect the performance of the immune system, digestive system, reproductive system and growth processes. Cortisol also controls mood, motivation, anxiety and increases the amount of glucose or sugar in the bloodstream. A rise in blood sugar can contribute to weight gain, food cravings, as well as diabetes and high cholesterol.

Depression, anxiety and pain control

Many who receive massage regularly note that it has many psychological benefits that last between massage sessions. An increase in mood, decrease in anxiety and pain levels occur due to the increase in serotonin and other feel-good endorphin levels. Studies have shown that these levels increase and remain elevated between weekly and monthly massage sessions. This effect can enhance any other treatments, including therapies and medications, that your doctor may currently prescribe to achieve your overall goals.

immunity

Research has also proven that regular massage increases immunity by stimulating the lymphatic system and mobilizing the cells that fight infection, making them more likely to get to the source and prevent or repel the invader. This is a huge benefit for those of us who can't afford to miss work or have families who need us 24/7. Infants, children and adults of all ages can benefit from regular massage as the immune system is strengthened by increasing lymphatic circulation and disease-fighting cells in the lymph nodes.

Improve appearance and function

For those of us who feel “bloated” at certain times of the month, massage can help reduce swelling due to the increase in blood flow and venous return, which in turn allows the kidneys to rid the body of excess fluid. A knowledgeable massage therapist can assess your posture and create a care plan to work on the muscles that cause posture problems to improve your overall posture. When posture is ideal, you will look, feel and function at your best. Massage also has a positive effect on the skin, moisturizing and giving you a healthy glow by increasing blood flow to the skin layers, making you look and feel better.

Reduced fall rates in older people

Studies on the benefits of massage for older people have shown a significant reduction in falls when massage therapy is performed regularly. Posture, muscle strength, everyday function and balance are improved overall. This is very beneficial for the aging population who can suffer minor fractures as well as other life-threatening injuries from a simple fall. Any fall can set an older person back in all aspects of functioning due to recovery time and the need for bed rest to heal, which over time reduces overall strength and functionality. Prevention is the key here! Prevent falls with regular massage sessions that keep you healthy, safe and functioning optimally. Live life in your golden years instead of watching it pass you by!

There are many benefits to getting regular massages and you don't necessarily need a full hour massage every time, making them very affordable. Studies show that the regularity of massage is more beneficial, not the length of sessions. A knowledgeable therapist can help you choose the best one for you based on your needs, budget, and schedule.

Call us at (318) 613-5190 to schedule your free consultation today and reap the health benefits of massage therapy.

Inspired by Leah L Fitzgerald