The benefits of massage therapy

Massage therapy can offer you a range of benefits. There are many different massage styles available that can help you, whether you are looking for a method of relaxation, relief from muscular pains, alleviating stress relief, or to treat a number of other conditions.

What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Massage therapy aims to help the body heal itself by drawing on a range of techniques to produce beneficial results in a range of different areas.  

Massage therapy for relaxation
Massage therapy styles including Swedish and Lomi Lomi are typically classified as relaxation massages. However, a general feeling of deep relaxation and calm is an immediate effect experienced with most massage styles. The gentle and soothing movements experienced during a massage encourage the release of endorphins which promote feelings of happiness and wellbeing. These all work together to create a feeling of calmness and allow for a chance to rest and rejuvenate.

Massage therapy for stress relief
Massage therapy creates a deeply relaxing experience and also offers stress relief and induces a feeling of calmness. It also works on a deeper level to reduce stress hormones and lower the blood pressure and heart rate. This in the long run contributes to an overall feeling of health and wellbeing. Many massage styles can offer stress relief. Aromatherapy massage in particular, uses specific essential oils to relieve depression, anxiety and assist with emotional and physical stress.

Massage therapy for improved circulation
Massage therapy can help stimulate blood flow and lymph drainage. This helps to improve circulation and blood flow and nourish the body’s blood cells. The increased production of blood cells and lymph flow also assists in the removal of cellular wastes. Along with this, increased circulation helps eliminate lactic acid which has built up in the muscles. By relaxing and toning the muscles, massage therapy can help prevent injuries and relieve muscle tension.

Massage therapy for pain relief
Massage therapy draws on the body’s ability to heal itself. Massage therapy also takes a holistic approach and will seek out the underlying cause of pain. By using remedial and deep tissue techniques, massage therapy can be used to help reduce inflammation and heal sore ligaments, tendons and muscles. Massage therapy’s ability to assist with pain relief makes it a perfect option for sports injury management. Specialised sports massages for pain relief use a range of techniques to enhance performance and ease overworked muscles.

Discomfort
Particular massage styles intend to produce specific results for individual patients. Massage therapy for babies is used to help treat constipation, colic and sleeping troubles, for instance. Pregnancy massages are beneficial in easing discomfort and soothing the aches and pains caused by pregnancy.

Speak to a massage therapist to find which styles can treat your condition. Find a massage therapist near you that meets your needs by searching our practitioner directory.

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