Why Massages are Good for your Health
Massage therapy history dates back thousands of years to ancient cultures as a sacred system of pain relief and natural healing. The earliest date of origin for massage therapy was back in 2700 B.C.E. At this date, there was a historical book created involving Chinese medicinal traditions and it was titled “The Yellow Emperor’s Classic Book of Internal Medicine” which led to the development of acupressure and acupuncture therapy. About 200 years later, the reflexology technique was developed by the ancient Egyptians and this was a vital part of some of the largest cultures in ancient history, including ancient Greece and Rome. Fast forward about a thousand years and you will find that massage therapy shifts to the ancient Hindu practice of Ayurveda medicine.
Over the years there have been several adaptations to the methods used but the general idea is the same. From easing muscle soreness after exercise to reducing stress, dozens of studies have linked massage with real physical and psychological benefits such as:
Pain Relief
Massage relieves pain for many people, including those with arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus, back injuries, migraines, sports injuries, and many other conditions. Massage relieves pain by reducing muscle tension and also by triggering the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals in the brain.
Helps with Depression
According to the Florida State Massage Therapy Association, during a massage, feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin increased by roughly 30% which helps prevent or lessen depression. In addition, many people find massage comforting and simply benefit from some human touch and a sense of connection with the massage therapist, which can also help with depression.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
A review study on massage found that levels of the stress hormone cortisol dropped 31% following a massage. Massage reduces tension and induces relaxation, which relieves anxiety. The increase in serotonin helps reduce anxiety, as well. Massage also relieves some of the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate.
Relieves Insomnia and Improves Sleep Quality
Sleep studies have shown a very strong link between weekly massages and reduced insomnia. This is extremely important when you consider the many health issues that are caused by a lack of sleep, including a weakened immune system and a greater risk of depression.
Boosts Immunity
A research group at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center discovered that a single 45-minute massage boosts immunity by stimulating the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system helps rid the body of waste, debris, toxins, and pathogens. Fluid circulates through the lymphatic system much like blood circulates through the cardiovascular system, but there is no pump such as the heart to help lymph fluid circulate. Massage helps lymph fluid circulate. Therefore, getting a massage weekly or biweekly is a great way to strengthen your immune system.
There are clearly many important benefits to massages and luckily, they are more accessible than ever before. Whether you can afford regular massages, or if you only have 5 minutes a day, you may include our collection of body and massage oils to your relaxing ritual.
We have formulated three types of all-natural WELLNESS BODY AND MASSAGE OILS oils to cater to your needs whether you need help in loosening tight muscles after a strenuous exercise, relax or calm your mind and body before going to sleep.
You may also want to hear what the beautiful Steph says about our KALMA RELAXING BODY AND MASSAGE OIL on her blog Beauty of Shades.
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