Wondering if You Should Get a Massage? Top 9 Benefits

Posted: July 23rd, 2014

Many people incorrectly think of massage therapy as a rare treat to spoil themselves with during a vacation or spa getaway. The truth is that massage is as important to your overall health and appearance as a good diet, daily exercise or skin, hair and dental care. Whether you're a student, job seeker, worker or retiree, you should add massage therapy by a certified massage therapist to your health and beauty regimen today. Why?

Stress

Massage brings stress relief by relaxing the body and releasing hormones, such as oxytocin, that alleviate anxiety.

PMS

If you're a woman, some of these hormones reduce premenstrual syndrome symptoms, such as discomfort and mood swings.

Pain

Whether you're an athlete or sit in a chair all day, manipulation of overused, strained, tight, aching and bruised tissues also provides pain relief.

Headaches

Massage can help if you're prone to stress or tension headaches caused by tight neck and shoulder muscles or teeth clenching or grinding.

Flexibility

As overall relaxation increases and tissue stress decreases, you can enjoy reduced joint stiffness.

Mental

Besides making you feel less stressed and calmer, a quick 10 to 15 minute massage can make you more alert and focused.

Sleep

Many people immediately want to sleep after they've reached a certain level of relaxation. The reason for this after a massage is an increase in the neurotransmitters that promote sleep, such as dopamine and serotonin.

Beauty

Relaxation and sleep promote a healthy and younger physical appearance. Massage therapy also assists by releasing toxins from the lymphatic system and improving circulation.

Illness

A boosted immune system, combined with other massage benefits, can help reduce symptoms and treatment side effects for people with severe health problems and diseases, including allergies, nerve disorders and cancer.