According to MAYO Clinic massage is a relaxing method to relieve stress and pain.
A soothing massage helps you unwind, but that’s not all. Explore the health benefits of massage therapy, plus what to expect.
You might think of a massage only as a luxury in exotic spas and upscale health clubs. But did you know that massage therapy, when combined with traditional medical treatments, is used to reduce stress and pain and promote healing in people with certain health conditions?
What is massage therapy?
During a massage, a therapist manipulates your body’s soft tissues — your muscles, skin and tendons — using his or her fingertips, hands and fists. Massage can be performed by several types of health care professionals, such as a physical therapist, occupational therapist or massage therapist. Several versions of massage exist, and they’re performed in a variety of settings. A massage may make you feel relaxed, but it isn’t likely to cure everything that ails you.
Learning about massage can help ensure that the experience is enjoyable.
Therapeutic Massage:
- Promotes easier and deeper breathing
- Increases blood circulation
- Removes toxic waste and build-up of toxins such as lactic acid from your muscles
- Helps prevent or delay muscle atrophy
- Stimulates the central nervous system to relax your body, reducing tension, mental stress, and anxiety
- Helps the body to recover faster from injury or workout. It can reduce swelling in certain situations.
- Gives a feeling of well-being
- Increases the capacity for clearer thinking