Easing Depression with Massage

Posted: July 15th, 2016

A relaxing session at the day spa can obviously work wonders on one's body and mind. With a large menu of day spa services, clients are presented with many options when choosing how to pamper and recharge themselves. However, massage therapy is now being utilized more frequently for a major medicinal reason: easing depression. Symptoms of depression can go beyond the mental and emotional realm and often take a very physical toll on the individual. While severity and duration of symptoms will vary from person to person, it cannot be denied that illness can have devastating effects if left untreated.  Using massage therapy as a treatment for easing depression has been shown by several studies to improve mood and reduce anxiety, two major factors involved in the illness. After an initial consultation at the day spa, which has a more relaxing atmosphere than a doctor's office, the massage therapist will use their fingers, hands, elbows, and arms to provide pressure to particular areas of the body. This might be at certain pressure points or nerve endings and will certainly affect the client's blood pressure and hormonal regulation. Massage has been shown to lower blood pressure and also reduce the secretion of cortisol, the body's stress hormone. Serotonin and dopamine, crucial neurotransmitters involved in reducing depression, levels have also been shown to increase during a massage therapy session.   Tending to specific muscle groups will also relieve built-up tension occurring there and allow them to reach a relaxed state. By using specialized techniques in specific areas of the body, the massage therapist can directly combat physical and emotional problems that the client may be experiencing. When attending doctor appointments and exploring treatment options, don't underestimate the proven mental and physical benefits that day spa services such as massage can provide.