Emma Russell
What if an hour’s massage did more than just take the pressures of the day away? What if a massage improved sleep, digestion or migraines? Or even helped you recover from a calf strain in half the time?
Evidence shows that the more remedial massage a person receives, the better they feel for longer. Remedial massage is a healing treatment that has been around for thousands of years. Touch is a natural human reaction to pain or stress…You know how when you bump your head, or stub your toe, you automatically rub it?
Many believe massage to be a “luxury”, however massage can be a very powerful ally for your health and here’s a few of the many ways massage can be of benefit to you.
Alleviates joint pain and improves range of movement
By using a wide range of different techniques, to relax and release the muscles, tendons and ligaments, enhanced movement and reduced pain can be achieved.
Stimulates lymphatic flow
Through light pressured strokes towards the heart, the flow is increased by up to 20 times which will improve the body’s natural defence system and therefore enhances immunity.
Helps athletes of any level prepare for and recover from strenuous workouts
Warming and loosening the muscles, exercising weak, tight muscles and stretching the affected area, leads to improved athlete performance.
Improves sleep and boosts energy levels
There are many factors that affect sleep patterns and people who are sleep deprived find they lack in energy and can struggle to carry out simple tasks. Massage can put a person in to a deep state of relaxation; it also decreases the stress hormone levels in the body, which can leave the person calmer, promoting a better night sleep after a massage treatment.
Reduces spasms and cramping
By increasing circulation, which removes toxins and cellular waste from the muscles, massage treatment will also relax the muscles and ease tension, which will further aid and ease cramps.
Decreased stress
Through the relaxing effects of massage, there is potential to find relief from depression and anxiety by lessening the levels of the stress hormone, Cortisol. Massage also increases Serotonin levels, the “happy hormone”, which improves mood, energy levels and positivity.
Headache and migraine relief
Loosening the muscles around the shoulders, neck and head, can over time contribute to a reduced need for medication. Massage helps release endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller, which will help ease pain, naturally.
