Benefits of Massage

Not only does massage feel got, but it has other benefits.

• It's good for your mood. Massage can ease depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
• Massage eases pain. Chronic tension headache sufferers have fewer episodes after neck and shoulder massages. According to Dr. Daniel Hinshaw massage can be as powerful as morphine for helping those in pain.
• It calms children with ADHD. According to a small study of children with ADHD, those who got a 20 minute massage twice a week for a month behave better in school.
• enhances immunity by improving lymph flow.
• improves circulation - which helps get more oxygen to vital organs as well as improving the condition of the skin
• helps sore muscles feel better, reduces spasms & cramping, increases joint flexibility
• Reduces Hypertension - stimulates the vagus nerve, which regulates blood pressure. In a 2005 study patients at the University of South Florida who received 10, 10 minute massages over a 3 week period had improved blood pressure

However some should speak to a medical professional before having a massage, such as those with burns or open wounds, severe osteoporosis, unhealed fractures, persons with a fever, deep vein thrombosis, cancer, or recent heart attacks. Pregnant women should seek a massage therapist trained in prenatal massage. Massage done improperly can also lead to damage, so get your massage from a trained massage professional.
Sources:
Samuel, Neena. "Hands On Pain Relief." Readers Digest April 2008: 47
Ehrenfeld, Temma. "Five Surprising Benefits of Massage." Newsweek 4 Sept. 2008.
"Benefits of Massage." Editorial Staff. Body Sense Fall 2001
The Mayo Clinic