experienced in exotic spas and upscale health clubs.
However, massage provides relief to people from all walks
of life –the weekend competitor, the manual laborer, or the
overstressed, over worked executive.
During massage, a therapist manipulates your body’s soft tissues–your
muscles, skin and tendons using his or her hands and fingertips. Massage
therapy techniques can ease a variety of health conditions, mostfrequently
stress-related tension. Some experts believe stress-related tension
accounts for 80-90% of disease. Massage has been proven to be beneficial
for individuals with sleep disorders, high blood pressure, immunity
problems, depression, fibromyalgia, or sinus pain and migraines,along with
back pain and other muscle aches.
Benefits and Physiological
Effects of Massage
• Increased circulation, allowing the body to pump more
oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.
• Stimulating the lymph system, the body’s natural defense
against viral or toxic cells.
• Relaxing and softening injured or overused muscles,
reducing muscle spasms and cramping
• Increasing joint flexibility
• Releasing endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller and
mood lifter
• Reducing discomfort for individuals with low back pain or
fibromyalgia
• Relieving migraine pain and reducing medication
• Reduced anxiety in individual with depression or trying to
quit smoking
Sources: Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.com
Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals: www.massagetherapy.com