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Massage
The Benefits Of Massage
What exactly are the benefits of receiving a massage or bodywork session? Useful for all of the conditions listed below and more, massage can:
- Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion
- Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers
- Ease medication dependence
- Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body's natural defense system
- Exercise and stretch weak, tight or atrophied muscles
- Help athletes of any level prepare for and recover from, strenuous workouts
- Improve the condition of the body's largest organ—the skin
- Increase joint flexibility
- Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks
- Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation
- Reduce spasms and cramping
- Relax and soften injured, tired and overused muscles
- Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller
- Relieve migraine pain
A Powerful Ally
There is no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.
Experts estimate nearly ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than stress. While eliminating anxiety in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into:
- Decreased anxiety
- Enhanced sleep quality
- Greater energy
- Improved concentration
- Increased circulation
- Reduced fatigue
Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
Profound Effects
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:
- Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain
- Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow
- Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching and anxiety
- High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure and anxiety
- Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping
- Preterm infants have improved weight gain
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch— ranging from chronic diseases, neurological disorders and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners to post surgery patients as part of the recovery process.
A massage can do you a world of good. This is the beauty of bodywork. Taking part in regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy and youthful you will remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat does not mean it is any less beneficial. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan.
Disclaimer: None of the above is meant to diagnose, treat, prescribe or claim to cure any disease. Clients are advised they should consult with their own medical practitioners for the diagnoses, care or treatment of any health condition.
Member of the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals®
Fees ~
30 minutes $40 ~ 60 minutes $75 ~ 90 minutes $110
Chair massage also available. |
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