19 Feb MASSAGE AND BODY ADJUSTMENTS FOR WELLBEING AND BETTER HEALTH
A massage does not only make you feel good or help you unwind at the end of a long work week – massages have proven physical and psychological health benefits that can assist in a variety of medical conditions; from easing post-exercise muscle tenderness, relieving chronic pain, and assisting in the management of stress, to name a few.
As an example, when it comes to one’s physical wellbeing, researchers in a 2018 systemic review and meta-analysis found that massage showed the highest level of improvement in the prevention of delayed onset muscle soreness and fatigue, as well as reducing inflammation, and decreases in muscle damage and physiological inflammatory markers (such as creatine kinase, interleukin-6, and C-reactive protein). Other studies have found that a single 10-minute muscle massage after a gym workout was able to reduce a patient’s muscle soreness by over 30%. The other benefits of massage include, but are not limited to, improved blood circulation and stimulation of the lymphatic system (which helps to flush toxins and waste from the body’s tissues and organs) which all contribute to muscle soreness.
In other areas of the body, massage has been shown to improve the overall look and feel of the skin as it increases the blood flow thereby improving lymphatic flow which brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to your skin.
People incorrectly assume that massage is a treatment focussed solely on relaxation but massage also has a number of far-reaching benefits in terms of mental health and overall wellness.
Massage works to relax one’s body and mind by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system (commonly referred to as the “Rest And Digest System”). This system becomes more active than usual during a massage and this allows the heart rate to slow down, increases the body’s intestinal and gland activity while simultaneously relaxing the muscles near the stomach.
Stress can also be regulated through massage as the increased blood flow results in the release of positive hormones and endorphins – serotonin and dopamine. These chemical changes in the brain bring about a feeling of calm, increasing relaxation and thereby reducing stress.
The duration of a massage typically ranges between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the client and there are different types of massage, the most common being Deep Tissue or Sports Massage and the classic Swedish massage.
Deep Tissue massages are an effective way of relieving bodily aches and pains and treating injuries. The benefits are enjoyed instantly and the treatment can even bring about structural changes which mean long-lasting relief and not just temporary benefits.
Meanwhile, a Swedish massage will help to relieve tension in the back and shoulders and ease muscular related conditions such as spasms, strains and sprains by flushing out toxins from the body.
Whether you have overexerted yourself at the gym or work is taking its toll, a massage is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Finding a massage programme that works for you can start you on the journey to achieving your ideal level of physical wellbeing.
Contact Rebecca at Osteovision today to get the perfect Camberley. We are also available in Frimley & Guildford. Improve your quality of life today.