Massage is a form of tissue manipulation which has developed over thousands of years. From ancient China to present-day Europe it has been used for the promotion and restoration of health. It is the use of hands, or mechanical means, to manipulate the soft tissue of the body, particularly muscles. It can be used for relaxation stimulation or rehabilitation of the whole body or part of it. It promotes suppleness of the muscles, improves circulation and and reduces stress. Massage is beneficial to all body systems and is a natural and effective way to treat both physical conditions and psychological problems.
Physiological benefits
- Stimulate blood circulation and assist the lymphatic system, improving the elimation of waste throughout the body.
- Relieves accumulated tension and restores flexibility to tight, sore muscles and improves muscle tone.
- Slows and regulates respiration, promoting deeper and easier breathing.
- Increase the flow of oxigen and nutrients to cells and tissue.
- Relieves cramps and muscle spasms and reduces pain and swelling by stimulating the release of endorphins (the body's natural painkiller) into the brain and nervous system.
- Fosters faster healing of strained muscles and sprained ligaments by preventing and reducing excessive scar tissue.
- Stretches connective tissue and increase tissue metabolism
- Increases joint mobility and range of movements
- Relieves tired and aching muscle and decreases muscular deterioration
- Lover blood pressure and reduces heart rate
- Increase red blood cell count.
- Help relieve tension-relatred conditions
- Stimulates the immune system and strengthens resistance to disease
- Improve skin tone by desquamating the skin
Psychological benefits
- Stimulates or calms the nervous system - depending upon what is needed
Relaxing and reassuring - promotes better sleep
Refreshing and rejuvenating - boosting energy
- Reduces mental stress and promotes better sleep
- Induces mental relaxation and calm bad temper
- Fosters peace of mind
- Provides a relaxed state of mental alertness
- Improves concentration
- Enhance capacity for calm thinking and creativity
- Improves ability to monitor stress and respond appropriately
- Enable a person to make 'peace' between their ambitions and limitations
- Reduces anxiety
- Provides a soothing and comforting alternative to verbal therapeutic technique, such as counselling
- Generates confidence and a feeling of wellbeing
- Enhances self-image and self-worth
- Satisfies the need for a caring and nourish touch and reducers sence of isolation
- Increase body awareness
- Increases awareness of mind-body-spirit connection
