Because the subject is so vast, it’s essential to know the kind of massage you’re seeking. “It’s not a cookie-cutter. There aren’t any of us with the same expertise,” Angela Barker, an experienced massage therapist who’s certified by the board for therapy massage as well as bodywork informs SELF. “So be sure to research Make a few calls, check their websites and then inquire about their services.”
Here are 10 benefits to massage.
If you love massages in spa-like settings it’s a good reason to continue to get massages when you’re able to take them in the near future. If you’re wondering whether massages can provide additional benefits for those with medical conditions, or if the routine rubdowns that you love so much actually have any benefit, it appears that they could be beneficial, depending on the situation.
However, we shouldn’t be carried away. Although there’s research to prove the benefits of massage, it’s not possible to schedule a massage instead of seeking medical treatment. Even though you may try the head with a massage in order to alleviate the occasional headache, or massaging your abdomen to ease an abdominal pain may be feasible, you should seek out a professional when you’re trying to ease discomfort due to a medical issue (even when you’re just having a chat with a registered massage therapist in Vancouver to learn massage tips for yourself). In addition, you must speak with your primary physician before scheduling a massage session for any specific condition or a specialist you visit for the problem of concern. However, there is research to show the idea that massage therapy can aid with these issues:
1. Relaxation and stress relief
The most important benefit of massage is that it relieves stress, Deery explains. There is more to be done to determine the exact extent to which massage therapy decreases stress hormones, such as cortisol. However, anecdotal research suggests massages aid in reducing stress and encouraging relaxation.
2. Intimacy between couples
Physical contact can do more than simply make us feel better. According to SELF has previously stated, a number of studies show that physical touch can reduce blood pressure and boost hormones, such as oxytocin. This can make us feel happy. In a study from 2020, a tiny study released in the Journal of Health Psychology found that couples’ massages each other can benefit both the person giving the massage as well as the one receiving it. Therefore, even if not in search of an actual medical massage, if there’s someone you’re looking to share your space with and wish to make a connection and bond, it’s a good idea to grab the massage oil and apply it on the other (or the other way around).
3. Relief from constipation
If you’re experiencing constipation or any other digestive issue and stomach issues, a massage may assist in relieving discomfort. A study from 2016 released in Gastroenterology Nursing found that abdominal massages helped patients suffering from constipation after surgery to improve their bowel movements and feel more comfortable.
4. Fibromyalgia pain management
Patients with fibromyalgia are plagued by chronic pain , memory, sleep and mood issues. Massage therapy isn’t the only cure for the disease however, according to the Mayo Clinic says that it can be a complement to treatment (along with medications, counseling as well as the physical therapy). Be aware that in certain instances massage therapy may increase the severity of your pain according to what The Mayo Clinic explains. It’s best to speak with your primary physician regarding the possible benefits of massage therapy for fibromyalgia. ensure that you talk about your health issue to your massage practitioner prior to.
5. Relief from tension headaches
Tension headaches, also known as headache that is focused, may be like having a tight band of hair over your head. as the Mayo Clinic explains. The exact cause isn’t identified, but there’s evidence to suggest that massages can offer relief from this type headache, the Mayo Clinic says. Particularly, it can help ease tension in your neck, head and shoulders (which may help relieve migraine symptoms).
6. Sleepiness (related to anxiety)
Like we said earlier massages can reduce the stress level, and lower stress levels can aid in getting the body to sleep (though you can also incorporate other ways to improve your sleep habits, such as the importance of a routine before bed, and limiting time spent on screens prior to going to bed too).
7. Myofascial treatment of pain syndrome
Myofascial-related pain syndrome can be described as a long-lasting pain disorder in which tension on muscles can result in discomfort (sometimes in areas that don’t appear to be related) as according to the Mayo Clinic explains. While there’s no cure it, some sufferers get benefits from getting a physical therapist or massage therapist treat the areas that they’re suffering from pain in order to ease tension in their muscles, The Mayo Clinic explains.
8. Sore muscles and tension
If your muscles are aching and injured, a massage could aid in bringing blood flow to the affected area (and help to speed up the healing process) According to a study of meta-analysis from 2015 published in the journal Current Review in Musculoskeletal Medicine.
9. Temporary joint and arthritis relief
Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling and pain in joints according to The Mayo Clinic says. When your massage therapist rubs or massages your muscles, the blood is pumped to joints, which can bring some relief for a short period according to according to the Mayo Clinic explains. Make sure you mention the fact that you suffer from arthritis prior to the massage therapy session, so that your therapist knows how to talk you through ways to cooperate.
10. Circulation during pregnancy
A massage during pregnancy can help improve circulation, according the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Be sure to consult with your doctor prior to booking an appointment. Also, be sure to inform your massage therapist you’re expecting (even even if you’re not visible).
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