We all know that massage feels fantastic. It’s relaxing and can also be used to treat muscle soreness and fatigue. By and large, massage is seen as a luxury item and because of this, it’s not something that is included in the monthly budget for people that are closely monitoring their expenses.
But what if we had our view on massage all wrong? What if it was recommended for the range of benefits it can provide above and beyond relaxation? Let’s take a look at 5 benefits of regular massage.
Table of Contents
1. Boosts Immune System
Regular massage is not just relaxing, but it can also improve your body defense from infections and diseases. Several studies have proven this and one of them is a study that was backed by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and was published on the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
The study had 53 participants that they divided into two groups with one group receiving massage therapy techniques from professionals. Those who received massage therapy had lower stress levels. Cells that help in strengthening the immune system were also produced. This just proves that getting regular massage could protect your body from sickness.
2. Fights Depression
Depression is one of the symptoms of stress. As you know, massage therapy could eliminate stress, which could also prevent this symptom. Moreover, studies have shown that it also increases the level of serotonin that enhances your mood. Lack of serotonin in the system is also another cause of depression. This means that more serotonin could prevent you from feeling depressed.
3. Lowers Blood Pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension could lead to serious health issues, including heart problems and stroke. It could be caused by various factors, such as smoking, obesity, drinking, and stress. Massage therapy can prevent stress, thus also lowering blood pressure.
Moreover, the result from a study that was made showed that participants who received 10 minutes massage for 10 times over the study period, which lasted for three weeks, showed that the blood pressure of participants who received massage was lower than those who did not. A healthy change in your lifestyle, coupled with massage therapy can help prevent hypertension.
4. Improves Alertness
Another study that was made from the University of Miami School of Medicine showed that massage therapy could enhance alertness. It also improved computations and accuracy, which are all beneficial to become more productive at work and school. Your brain will be able to focus more and work better, thus making it easier for you to complete your tasks successfully.
5. Improve Behavior of Those with ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is a condition that affects the attention, activity and impulse control of adolescents and children. Psychologists and pediatricians often help those with the said disorder. ADHD classes are also available in order to help ADHD patients cope with this condition. An alternative solution for this is massage therapy. A study that was made back in 2003 showed that participants with ADHD that received 20 minutes massage, two times per week for a month, had a huge improvement in their behavior and mood.
Wrapping Up
Perhaps it’s time you considered regular massage as part of your ongoing health and wellness focus? We certainly think so.
This article was provided by BodylineHealth.com.au, one of Australia’s leading massage groups.
