Massage has Many Benefits for Your Health
Massage therapy has grown to become an important part of health care for many people living in today's stressful world!
While traditional health care systems throughout the world are recognizing that therapeutic massage contributes in the treatment of illness, chronic ailments and contributes to a higher sense of general well-being, massage is known as one of the oldest healing arts. Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use; the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments; and Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems.
With ever-expanding research on the beneficial effects of massage, and as an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, more professionals are advising patients to include therapeutic massage in their health care treatment plans. Physicians, chiropractors and physiotherapists are recommending more patients receive massages for certain health conditions, while many employers and health insurance plans support the use of registered massage therapists.
The benefits of massage are varied and far-reaching but showing proven benefits for many chronic conditions, including low back pain, arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity suppression, infertility, smoking cessation, depression, and more. And, as many millions will attest, massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness.
Expanding research is demonstrating that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. Evidence is mounting that nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether 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
Additionally, patients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance massage provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
Furthermore, massage entrains specific physiological and chemical changes to 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, anxiety, and stress hormones
- Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping
- Preterm infants have improved weight gain
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch—which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles.