The Benefits of Massage

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

14 Jul 2006 08:45 AM

If you think that massage is just for self-indulgent, spoiled people... think again! There are many important health benefits to massage -- it can help you maintain physical and mental well-being.

• Massage can calm the nervous system. The rhythmic stroking of your muscles is very soothing, and helps your body relax and slow down. Considering the fast-paced way we live our lives... slowing down is a good thing.
• Massage can help lower your blood pressure.
• Massage promotes deeper breathing.
• Massage improves circulation, so your body delivers oxygen and nutrients to cells more efficiently.
• Massage stimulates your lymphatic system -- your body's waste removal system.
• Massage reduces physical and mental tension.
• Massage reduces anxiety and stress. The low light, the soft music, and the rhythmic kneading give you a chance to clear your mind and experience some peacefulness.
• Massage relieves muscle cramps and spasms. Massage before vigorous exercise can help prevent muscle cramps and spasms!
• Massage therapy can help manage pain in chronic conditions like arthritis and sciatica.
• Massage promotes healing in strained muscles and ligaments.
• Massage helps increase flexibility and range of motion. Some types of massage incorporate gentle stretching along with the muscle kneading.
• Massage satisfies a need for a caring, nurturing touch.

When you go for a massage, the therapist will have you fill out an intake form. The form asks about general health and specific issues that may need to be addressed during your session. Be honest; tell your therapist if you have any pain or injuries, or if you have had problems with an area of your body in the past. They will take extra care in that area. They may also know acupressure or reflexology points that can help ease your discomfort.

My massage therapist always pays special attention to my hands and wrists, as I tend to have inflammation there from repetitive motion at the keyboard. If I'm having sinus pressure, she spends more time on my face to relieve the pain. There is no cookie-cutter massage; your therapist will provide a different experience for every session.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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