Mental and Physical Benefits of Massage Therapy

The oldest documentation of massage therapy is in 3000 BC India, which was passed down through generations. The Hindus considered it sacred, as a system of natural healing that they used to relieve pain, heal injuries, and cure and prevent disease. 

The sacred medicine of the Hindus to which massage therapy belonged was called Ayurveda, or life medicine. Massage therapy spread out to different cultures from India, changing and growing with newer techniques added. 

In China, the treatment evolved under the influence of Chinese traditional medicine, martial arts, and spiritual yoga training from Taoists and Buddhists. Today, we understand more about this ancient therapy, and many people are taking advantage of its physical and mental benefits. 

Mental Benefits of Massage Therapy

• Relieves Stress and Depression

One of massage therapy's most essential and popular benefits is stress relief. Many people who have had a massage at the end of a busy and demanding work week usually make it a habit because of its relaxation. 

From an analysis of 17 clinical studies on the impact of massage therapy on depression, all studies showed positive results. While massage is not a cure for depression, it can be critical in managing the symptoms. 
 

• Promotes Feelings of Connection and Well-being

Having a massage usually results in oxytocin release in the brain. When people have human contact, this “cuddle” or “love” hormone is released, giving comfort, ease, and well-being. In massage therapy, this hormone can be released in a safe environment. 
 

• Increase in Dopamine and Serotonin

Getting a massage can lift your mood, despite how you are feeling. The reason is that massage therapy stimulates your body to release serotonin and dopamine. These two hormones can increase by up to 30 percent after a massage, giving you a mood boost that can last quite some time. 

Physical Benefits of Massage Therapy

• Pain Relief

A critical benefit of massage to the body is pain relief caused by various issues. Massage therapy usually helps with lower back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, neck pain, and relief from scar tissue pain. Any pain that is physical can be addressed through massage therapy.  
 

• Relaxation

Massage therapy utilizes different techniques to restore movement in the muscles. Professional therapists do this by gently pulling muscles from the bone and undoing knots that may form in the muscle tissues. This usually leads to muscle relaxation, resulting in endorphin release. These combined all lead to a general feeling of relaxation. 
 

• Improves Sleep
   

Sleep is ideal for both the mind and the body, and after a relaxing massage, it comes easy. Not only can you sleep easily after a session, but you will also sleep better. It works even for people under stress or undergoing heavy treatment like chemo. 
 

• It Enhances Immunity
   

Regular massage sessions usually increase white blood cells. The body's defense against disease relies on the white blood cell count. Moreover, doctors say it enhances the immune function in patients with HIV.

For more on massage therapy's mental and physical benefits, contact Atlantic Chiropractic Associates at our offices in Milford, Georgetown, or Lewes, Delaware. Call (302) 309-9900 to book an appointment today.