What Is Massage Therapy?
Most massage treatments will relax you, among other things. With a relaxation massage, relaxing you is the only aim. For this reason, it is one of the most complete and indulgent massages you can have. Definitions vary, but in the UK, a relaxation massage is usually a full-body treatment involving soft music, soft lighting and aromatherapy essential oils. You will have a long, luxurious massage which will use all kinds of massage techniques including long strokes, gentle kneading and rolling of skin and muscle, and perhaps some rhythmic rocking from side to side. It is a passive treatment. You probably won’t be stretched or manoeuvred into any yoga-like positions, as you are, for example, in Thai massage. You just lie there and take it. This is the massage to choose if you just want to chill out, and be pampered and spoiled.
- Massage therapy techniques can stimulate the body’s natural painkillers, called endorphins. This can help decrease pain and improve mood.
- Massage therapy improves many functions of the body to include: the circulatory system, the lymphatic system, the immune system and many others.
- Therapeutic stretching, cup therapy, and massage therapy can help speed the healing of tissues, rehabilitate and reduce restrictions that may cause injuries thus reducing the risk of injury.
- Massage therapy can mitigate headaches and even migraines.
- Lymphatic drainage massage, a specialized form of massage therapy, improves the lymphatic system, which improves swelling and facilitates the body’s ability to flush out toxins.
- Massage therapy can reduce cortisol levels, which is our stress hormone. This can affect feelings of anxiety, stress, and improve immune function.
- Massage therapy affects our heart function by lowering blood pressure.
- Massage can increase serotonin levels, which is often called the “happy chemical” because it contributes to happiness.
- Massage therapy techniques can improve a person’s overall health, wellness and wellbeing.
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