The Science Behind: Massage therapy and what happens in your body.
Massage therapy is not just a luxury it’s a scientifically-backed method for improving your physical and mental health. By understanding the physiological and psychological effects of massage, you can better appreciate its role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, in a 2016 evaluation of nondrug therapies for low-back pain, examined 20 studies that compared massage to usual care or other interventions and found evidence that massage was helpful for chronic low-back pain but that the strength of the evidence was low. The agency also looked at 6 studies that compared different types of massage but found that the evidence was insufficient to show whether any types were more effective than others.
BENEFITS:
Relaxation: Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which can help you relax and reduce stress.
Pain relief: Massage can increase the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
Improved sleep: Massage can increase serotonin production, which can help you sleep better. It can also reduce physical tension that can interfere with sleep.
Improved circulation: Massage can improve circulation.
Reduced muscle stiffness: Massage can decrease muscle stiffness.
Reduced joint inflammation: Massage can decrease joint inflammation.
Block pain signals: Massage may block pain signals sent to the brain, which is known as the "gate control theory".
Biological Effects
Nervous System Stimulation: Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing a state of relaxation and reducing stress.It can also decrease the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increase the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
Improved Circulation: Techniques like effleurage and petrissage enhance blood flow, aiding in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues.Improved circulation also helps in the removal of metabolic waste, reducing muscle soreness and fatigue.
Muscle Relaxation: Massage therapy reduces muscle tension by breaking down adhesions and scar tissue, promoting flexibility and range of motion. It can alleviate chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and lower back pain.
Psychological Effects
Stress Reduction: The calming effect of massage reduces anxiety and promotes a sense of well-being. Regular sessions can lower the symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders.
Sleep quality: Reducing stress and muscle tension, massage can improve sleep patterns and help combat insomnia the increase in serotonin levels contributes to better sleep regulation.
Mental Clarity: Massage therapy enhances cognitive function by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. It can improve focus, concentration, and overall mental performance.
The benefits of massage therapy are rooted in science, offering significant improvements to both physical health and mental well-being.
If you’re looking to experience the benefits of massage therapy, Lisa Miller Massage is here to help. Our expert therapists are trained in the latest techniques and committed to helping you achieve optimal health.
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