Three Benefits of Massage Therapy
Massage can be used as a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being. At Anatomica, we believe massage to be heath care for your muscles!
There are many reasons for someone wanting to receive a massage, including soreness, injury or the desire for general relaxation. Here are some benefits you may see when including massage in your health care practice:
- Decreased Stress: Massage therapy has been proven to decrease cortisol and increase dopamine and serotonin. Cortisol is thought to be increased during times of stress, and also to prevent the release of substances in the body which cause inflammation. Having a massage will decrease your cortisol levels, while at the same time increasing your dopamine and serotonin. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with the pleasure centers of the brain. It is responsible for feelings related to love, joy, pleasure, reward and motivation. Serotonin is also a neurotransmitter and helps to regulate mood, irritability, impulse, obsession and memory.
- Natural pain relief: Massage Therapy may be useful for reducing pain for everything from injuries, muscle strain and even PMS. Massage increases circulation to the treatment area, and also relaxes the tissues, which can decrease the tension of muscles and reduce painful spasms and contractions.
- Reduced Depression and Anxiety: A study done over five weeks tested the depression and anxiety levels of two groups – one receiving massage and the second not receiving massage. The group who did receive massage reported lower depression and anxiety scores at the end of the five week period.
There are many more benefits for Massage Therapy! Give us a call and see what is best for your needs!
