Far beyond simply feeling good, massage has an impressive range of positive effects and benefits. With a variety of hands-on methods, a skilled massage therapist not only stretches and loosens muscle and connective tissue, but also improves blood flow to the heart and the movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. The therapist's hands speed removal of metabolic waste products resulting from exercise or inactivity, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the cells and tissues. Sensory receptors in skin and muscles wake up, bringing new awareness to areas that have felt cut off by chronic tension patterns. The release of muscular tension also helps to unblock and balance the overall flow of energy throughout the body. In addition, massage can stimulate the release of endorphins - the body's natural painkillers - into the brain and central nervous system. All this translates into an amazing number of tangible results.
Massage has been shown to produce a relaxed state of alertness, reduced mental stress and a calmer mind, greater ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately, and increased capacity for clearer thinking.
Some of the physical benefits associated with massage are: deep relaxation and stress reduction, relief of muscle tension and stiffness, reduced muscle spasm and pain, greater joint flexibility and range of motion, increased ease and efficiency of movement, better circulation of both blood and lymph, reduced blood pressure, relief of tension-related headaches and eye strain, healthier, better nourished skin, improved posture, deeper and easier breathing, faster healing time from pulled muscles and sprained ligaments, reduced spasm, pain and swelling, reduced formation of scar tissue, strengthened immune system and disease prevention, and a head start on health maintenance.
We each have a strong inherent need for caring and nurturing touch, which is fulfilled by massage. Massage also promotes of a feeling of well-being, eases emotional expression, enhances self-image, reduces levels of anxiety, increases awareness of body-mind connection, and gives a feeling of being unified and in harmony with self and the world.