Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Benefits Of Seeing A Massage Therapist


Massage therapy is a practice that is dedicated to using touch to manipulate the muscles and soft tissues in the body. Massage therapy has been around for hundreds of years, and it has been noted for its many health benefits. Below are some of the benefits that can be reaped from seeing a massage therapist:

Alleviate Stress

Nearly half of working adults in America have reported that they feel stressed out on a regular basis. Stress is an inevitable part of being an adult, but it is very important for one to learn how to manage it. People who get massages on a regular basis will be able to manage their stress better. Massages have been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins. Endorphins help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.

Additionally, a massage can help reduce the amount of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is known as the stress-hormone. There have been several studies done where people's cortisol levels were measured before and after getting a massage. The results of the studies showed that the subjects' cortisol levels were significantly lower after getting a massage.

Lower Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a problem that affects one in three adults in America. High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes and diabetes if it is left untreated. There have been studies done to show that a massage can help lower blood pressure.

One of the studies was performed by a team of researchers at the University of Florida. Half of the participants were given 10 massages over the course of three weeks. The remaining participants were given a placebo. The results of the study showed that the participants that were given a massage had a significant improvement in their blood pressure. There were no significant changes observed in the control group.

Researchers believe that a massage can help lower blood pressure by stimulating the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve helps regulate a number of important functions in the body, including blood pressure.

Boost the immune system

Cortisol destroys immunity cells, which makes a person more prone to developing illnesses. Because a massage helps reduce the amount of cortisol in the body, it can also boost the immune system.

People should definitely consider getting a professional massage on a regular basis. Massages have been shown to alleviate stress and lower blood pressure. They can also help prevent illness by boosting the immune system.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7261387

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