A massage may feel like a luxurious treat, but it is one of the oldest healing practices, with roots in Ancient Greece, Egypt, China, and India. This kind of therapy involves rubbing and kneading muscles, tendons and ligaments. The following guide explains how a few sessions can improve your physical and mental health.
What Are the Advantages of Massage Therapy?
1. Reduces Pain
Many people suffer from chronic lower backaches, stiff knee joints, and arthritis. A massage can reduce the pain associated with these conditions by promoting blood circulation, which delivers healing oxygen and nutrients to soft tissues. Studies have shown that massages can relieve back pain in the same way that over-the-counter medications can.
2. Relieves Stress & Anxiety
These days, it's easy to get caught up in a whirlwind of work deadlines, family issues, and financial concerns. A massage session creates a calm environment where you can relax and forget about any of your anxieties. This therapy can also enhance the production of dopamine and oxytocin. These "happy" hormones generate positive feelings and help decrease anxiety, stress, and depression.
3. Improves Sleep Quality
A good night's sleep can improve your overall health. Poor sleep can reduce concentration, alertness, and productivity. It can also increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. In addition to the other "happy" hormones, massages increase the production of serotonin, a mood stabilizer. The body uses serotonin to synthesize melatonin, which regulates your sleep cycle.
4. Boosts the Immune System
Stress and poor sleep both harm your immune system. As stated above, massage therapy can help with both, ensuring your body is rested and fit enough to prevent infections. Additionally, studies have shown that people who received a 45-minute massage had a higher number of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that fight diseases. As a result, regular sessions can keep your immune system in excellent shape.
If you want to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of a massage, turn to Simply Ravishing - The Salon. Their team of experienced professionals provides an array of quality services to clients in Gilbert, AZ. Their massage therapy options include Swedish, reflexology, and deep tissue. Call (480) 558-5143 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.