Massage Therapy Provides Stress-Relieving Health Benefits

Everyone knows that getting a massage can feel great, but did you know that it's also a smart choice for your short- and long-term health? That's because therapeutic massage has been shown to decrease stress levels. And the lower your stress, the healthier you'll be both today and tomorrow.

That massage therapy is relaxing pretty much goes without saying. Unless you're seeking treatment for a sports injury or needing deep-tissue massage to address a particular issue, most people approach massage treatment specifically for the purpose of relaxation. Tight muscles will be loosened up, and you'll have the hour or so of massage treatment to just enjoy having your muscles worked, rather than obsessing over your to-do list or worrying about work projects. In short, having a full-body massage can provide relaxation from head to toe.

However, massages offer more than just general relaxation. They're also a powerful tool in your fight against stress and its negative health effects. Recent studies have shown that stress levels as a whole are rising across all of American society, up some 18% for women since 1983 (as reported on Time.com June 14, 2012). And because stress can make you feel anxious, unhappy, and all-around unwell, it's important to deal with stress before it snowballs.

Mayoclinic.com catalogs a veritable laundry list of symptoms caused by stress, including: headaches, fatigue, stomach upset, sleeping difficulties, and more. These are all immediate ill-effects that you may be experiencing right now. Additionally, Mayoclinic.com also lists stress as a contributor to major health concerns from high blood pressure and heart disease to obesity and diabetes. These are all chronic conditions that can negatively impact your life as they develop, but these can also be largely staved off by addressing major risk factors--like stress.

These facts about stress and your body's health show that massage therapy is not just a convenient way to relax, but also a powerful tool for being happier and healthier today and down the line. Full-body massages have been shown to increase serotonin production and decrease cortisol production, resulting in less stress. And less stress means reduced risk factors for chronic conditions like heart disease and overall better health in the short term, too.

So if you're having trouble justifying the splurge of a massage, it's time to rethink your attitude. Swedish massage isn't a luxurious indulgence; it's a wise investment in your health. Reduce your stress levels today by booking a session with your massage therapist ASAP.


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