We all know that there are a lot of benefits to getting massages regularly. Yet, when we’re asked what benefits these are, we often find them difficult to pinpoint. All we know is that “they’re good for you”, yet, we don’t get them as often as we should. Well, I think you, my dear readers, already know why. Because we haven’t defined what these benefits are exactly. That’s where this article comes in.
But before all else, these are some of the basics you need to know on massage therapy. So, why exactly should you get a massage regularly? Read on to find out!
Enhances Immunity
Some massage types are able to help facilitate the distribution of lymph throughout the body. Lymph is what separates from blood as blood circulates throughout the body. The lymph then helps destroy harmful bacteria and cancer cells. Lymph also helps deliver vital hormones and nutrients to various parts of the body.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Massages have been proven to increase the levels of production for serotonin and dopamine, both of which are responsible for that feeling of euphoria. Massages have also been proven to lower cortisol levels in the body. Both these effects play toward reducing stress levels by helping you to feel good instead of stressed and anxious.
The same effect can also be gained when you, yes, you, give a massage.
Counteracts the Effects of Sitting Disease
It doesn’t matter whether you’re driving or you’re at work, whatever the case may be, the modern gentleman is prone to acquiring “Sitting Disease” which is the gradual misalignment of your posture brought about by sitting for extended periods of time. As an effect, this causes your spinal ligaments to stretch beyond their limits. So, the individual ends up with a forward head position as well as rounded shoulders.
The average office worker is going to be sitting eight to nine hours per workday and this can cause neck and back pain. A regular massage, when done along with regular exercise, can help alleviate pain from Sitting Disease.
Readjusts Posture
As previously surmised, the average office worker is going to be sitting at the office for at least eight hours a day. While pain is the first and most noticeable result of sitting disease, one may not immediately notice how misaligned one’s posture is. Massage therapy, specifically, deep tissue massage therapy, is one way of correcting posture. This is because deep tissue massage puts an emphasis on relieving muscle tension in the deepest layers of the muscle tissue, which includes the tendons and the fascia.
Helps Keeps Muscles In Peak Condition
Massage therapy is a common routine for most athletes. This is because massages help maintain and even improve blood circulation to the muscles. When there is an ample supply of blood and oxygen in your muscles, you’re able to exert more effort than if your muscles had a shortage of blood and oxygen.