Five Benefits of Massage TherapyThis blog is brought to you by Christine Huegel of Mattress Advisor

With the rise of the holistic and wellness trend that is sweeping the country, people have been trying to find natural remedies to treat their ailments. Because of the growing popularity, new studies have been conducted suggesting new methods to utilize, with a very popular focus on the benefits of massage therapy. Massages don’t just feel great, they have proven mental and physical health benefits that you can start taking advantage of. Below we will explore the top five reasons to book a massage!

Reduce Stress

Anyone that has gotten a massage knows that it can be a relaxing and calming experience, but did you know that it can actually reduce your stress levels as well? Stress can cause a large number of concerns for your body including irritability, weight gain, sleep problems, and more. It is imperative to get your stress levels under control to have a healthy mind and body. Thankfully getting regular massages could be the answer to your stress problem!

A recent study conducted by Chang Gung University concluded that there was a positive correlation between stress levels and getting regular massages. This is because researchers found that when a participant got a massage, their cortisol levels significantly reduced. Cortisol is your stress hormone and controls your fight or flight response. Not only did it reduce participants’ stress levels during the massage, but for up to eighteen hours after it had been completed.

Improve Sleep

Sleep is incredibly important to everyone’s physical and mental well-being. According to a study conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one in three Americans do not get an efficient amount of sleep. Getting an aromatherapy massage could help you get a full night’s rest.

Aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years and is the practice of utilizing essential oils to combat different ailments. An aromatherapy massage uses lotions with essential oils and uses a diffuser to allow the client to inhale the oils as well. Different essential oils can treat different problems you might be experiencing. Some of the best to treat sleep problems include lavender, peppermint, and roman chamomile. Request these essential oils next time you get a massage for a relaxing time and a restful sleep.

Pain Management

If you are someone that experiences any kind of pain on a regular basis then you are not alone. The National Institute of Health reported that pain affects more people than diabetes, heart disease, and cancer combined. With such an epidemic happening, many people have turned to natural alternatives to reduce their chronic pain levels to avoid addictive medications.

The Massage Therapy Foundation published a research project that involved hospital patients that were experiencing pain because of surgical, medical, or other reasons. They integrated thirty-minute massages into their routine several times a week. The study demonstrated that massages led to a significant decrease in pain levels, and also helped patients sleep patterns, relaxation, the healing process, and more.

Detoxification

Many massage patrons have been told to drink lots of water after their deep tissue massage, but many do not know the reason why. It is because when someone gets a massage, your body begins to release toxins that are stored throughout the muscles.

The pressing movement and release during a massage help with the circulation of blood movement and the lymphatic system. Water assists your body in bringing oxygen, new blood, and nutrients to your muscles, organs, and tissue.

Massages also help to flush out waste products that are created by different cells each day. All of this helps to flush out the toxins that are built up in your lymphatic system. Getting rid of these impurities in your system can help to increase energy, aid in weight loss, and reduce inflammation.