7 Reasons Why You Need a Massage

An impromptu shoulder rub from a partner can feel really good, especially if you are stiff after a long day at the office. However, there are plenty more compelling reasons why you should book a massage regularly – and here are some of them.

Stress Relief

Being under stress is a common reason to book a massage. When we are stressed, our bodies tense up, our heart rate goes through the roof and increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol flood through our system. Massage therapy can alleviate the symptoms of stress, which is good for your long-term health and well-being.

Post Exercise Muscle Soreness

Athletes have post-exercise massages as a matter of routine. A good massage helps sore muscles to recover from the stress of exercise by relieving tension and improving circulation to the area. When used in conjunction with post-workout stretching, this is the best way to reduce the pain of sore, stiff muscles.

Improved Circulation Massage therapy improves circulation in the cardiovascular and lymphatic system, which in turn helps to flush toxins away from our limbs. A poor circulatory system will cause all kinds of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and dementia. Massages can counteract circulation problems, plus you will feel relaxed and refreshed after a good massage.

Pain Relief

Massage involves direct pressure on our skin. Some masseuses love to get right in there and it can be rather uncomfortable, particularly if you are having a post-exercise sports massage, but when done right, a good massage is great for pain relief. The reason for this is simple. Strong, targeted pressure in the painful spot releases tension and encourages blood flow to the area. Once the tension eases, the pain goes away.

Relaxation

Having a Massage encourages relaxation in your body. In fact, it is so relaxing that you may end up falling asleep at the end of the session. Anyone with insomnia will benefit from massage therapy, and if you have a baby with a sleep problem, trying giving him a gentle massage between bath and bed. It is very soothing!

You don’t even have to go out to feel relaxed. If you want your partner to do the honors in the comfort of your own home, click here for more information about massage tables.

Good for the Immune System

Does your immune system need a boost? If so, massage therapy is good for you. Research into the benefits of massage has found that a massage session boosts white blood cells. These play a major role in helping our bodies to withstand infection and disease. Anyone with a compromised immune system will benefit from regular massage therapy.

A Mood Booster

Having a massage boosts your levels of serotonin, which is nature’s happy pill, plus dopamine. Not surprisingly, a good massage is an excellent feel-good mood boost. So next time you are feeling blue, book a massage and you will soon be sunshine and rainbows once again.

There is no doubt that a regular massage is good for you. When’s your next massage?