An astounding amount of clinical research studies have indicated the many physical and mental/emotional benefits of massage. Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress-related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. Massage is an effective tool for managing this stress, which translates into: |
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• Decreased anxiety | • Enhanced sleep quality | • Greater energy |
• Improved concentration | • Increased circulation | • Reduced fatigue |
Massage can also help specifically address a number of health issues. Bodywork can:
- Alleviate low-back pain.
- Aid in the recovery of injuries due to car accidents, repetitive stress, and sports.
- Reduce muscle spasms and cramping.
- Provide relief of carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
- Treat injuries and disorders such as whiplash, frozen shoulder,strains, sprains, tendonitis, tenosynovitis, and plantar fasciitis.
- Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.
- Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body's natural defense system.
- Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
- Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
- Improve the condition of the body's largest organ—the skin.
- Increase and maintain joint and muscle flexibility, and range of motion.
- Lessen depression and anxiety.
- Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
- Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
- Reduce postsurgery adhesions and swelling.
- Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller.
- Relieve headaches and migraines.
Here is one good source of overviews and links to massage therapy research: https://www.massagemag.com/research-studies/