3 benefits of Massage Therapy
1. Boost Immunity
Getting a massage not only helps us relax but also gives our immune system a boost. Receiving a massage has been found to increase the number of lymphocytes and other white blood cells that help defend the body from disease.
Other physical changes included:
Lower levels of cytokines and other molecules that play a role in inflammation
A decrease in the stress hormone cortisol
A decrease in vasopressin, a hormone that plays a role in aggressive behavior.
One session of massage therapy, is enough to produce measurable changes in the body’s immune and endocrine response. Massage stimulates the production of endorphins, opiate-like compounds produced by the body that relieve pain and create feelings of euphoria.
2. Improved Sleep
About half of Americans say that poor or insufficient sleep has affected their daily activities at least once in the past seven days.
“A bad night’s sleep can be remedied with massage therapy”
Several studies have found that getting a massage reduced fatigue and improved sleep in people of all ages, including those with psychiatric disorders, cancer, and heart disease, among many others. Most studies credit it to massages increasing delta waves, brain waves connected to deep sleep, which would explain why it’s easier to drift off on a massage table.
3. Manage Anxiety and Depression
It’s easy to feel anxious or fall into depression when going through tough times. However, a massage can soothe these feelings by reducing cortisol levels. Researchers have found that those receiving a massage two times a week for five weeks experienced an increase in frontal delta waves, which promotes feelings of relaxation.
“Slow, loud brainwaves that suspend external awareness and are a source of empathy. ”
Meanwhile, frontal alpha brainwaves and the strength of beta waves (present in the brain when we’re alert) decreased. This helps adults fall into deep relaxation and decreases anxiety.
