It is commonly recognized that massage has many therapeutic benefits for our psychological health. After all, it’s one of the most relaxing treatments you can get done! But, as you may suspect, the advantages of massage aren’t restricted to just our mental well-being — it can benefit us physically, too. Many athletes regularly receive massages to help them recover from sports injuries and to enhance their performance.
You don’t need to be an Olympian to get some good from a massage! Those who don’t exercise very regularly can gain from massages.
So, how does massage improve physical health and performance? First and foremost, it stimulates fluid circulation around the body. Increased blood flow means more oxygen is supplied to muscles, which enables them to work harder. More oxygen also improves alertness and energy levels. Boosted lymph fluid flow allows white blood cells (an essential component of the immune system) to travel to injured body parts and help speed up healing.
Lastly, the motions massage therapists use and the pressure they apply to tissues help alleviate pain and tightness, leading to increased physical performance. This is accomplished by relaxing the muscles and ironing out knots and tension.
Living Pain-Free Through Massage
Massage is one great holistic method to minimize and control pain. It works as pain relief in two primary ways. Firstly, for most people, massage feels good because our brains release endorphins while we’re being massaged. These naturally-occurring chemicals in the brain make us feel happy and they also act as painkillers by blocking pain receptors. Since no artificial drugs are being administered, you don’t run the risk of developing resistance to these hormones.
Secondly, the physical pressure applied during massage often helps relax muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues. A massage therapist can iron out knots and other tension that can cause pain and discomfort. Stimulated blood and lymph fluid flow also mean that recovering body parts are supplied with more oxygen and white blood cells which can speed up healing and minimize how long you’re sore for.
As always, consult with a licensed medical doctor when considering any new treatments.
Why You Should Add Massage To Your Monthly Routine
Most people get a massage as a rare, well-deserved treat. But it’s recommended that people receive a massage at least once a month — ideally every two weeks, in fact — to receive the greatest benefits from this therapeutic treatment.
As with any component of a health care regimen (such as exercise and psychotherapy), you need a regular massage to get the most out of it. One-off treatments are a nice treat, to be sure, but sporadic massages don’t lend the fullest advantages to your mind and body.
Consistent monthly (or bi-monthly) massages keep your muscles relaxed and supple which helps prevent injury, even if you don’t work out regularly. They also help maintain a healthy immune system, something that’s particularly vital during cold and flu seasons. These two factors also mean that you recover more quickly if or when you do fall ill or accidentally hurt yourself. Lastly, monthly massages are something to look forward to and get excited about every month, which is essential for mental health.
