A Powerful Ally
There’s no denying the power
of bodywork. Regardless of the
adjectives we assign to it
(pampering, rejuvenating,
therapeutic) or the reasons
we seek it out (a luxurious treat,
stress relief, pain management),
massage therapy can be a
powerful ally in your healthcare
regimen. The incredible
benefits of massage are
doubly powerful if taken in regular “doses.” Professionals at the Touch Research Institute
at the University of Miami explain the more massage you get, the greater benefits you
reap.
Here’s Why
Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps
nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress.
While eliminating anxiety and pressure
altogether in this fast-paced world may
be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt,
help manage stress.
This translates into:
• Decreased anxiety.
• Enhanced sleep quality.
• Greater energy.
• Improved concentration.
• Increased circulation.
• Reduced fatigue.
Furthermore, clients often report a sense of
perspective and clarity after receiving a
massage. The emotional balance bodywork
provides can often be just as vital and
valuable as the more tangible physical
benefits.
Profound Effects
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout
the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:
• Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and
less stiffness and pain.
• Asthmatic children show better pulmonary
function and increased peak air flow.
• Burn injury patients report reduced pain,
itching, and anxiety.
• High blood pressure patients demonstrate
lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety,
and stress hormones.
• Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have
decreased water retention and cramping.
• Preterm infants have improved weight gain.
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch—which range from treating
chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of
modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively
embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and
neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating
on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat postsurgery or pain patients as part
of the recovery process.
Increase the Benefits with Frequent Visits
Here’s the beauty of bodywork: its benefits are compounded when massage is utilized as
a frequent therapy. The more you get, the more it does. Taking part in this form of
regularly-scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy
you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and
money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And
remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any less
therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and
wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best
meets your needs.
There’s no denying the power
of bodywork. Regardless of the
adjectives we assign to it
(pampering, rejuvenating,
therapeutic) or the reasons
we seek it out (a luxurious treat,
stress relief, pain management),
massage therapy can be a
powerful ally in your healthcare
regimen. The incredible
benefits of massage are
doubly powerful if taken in regular “doses.” Professionals at the Touch Research Institute
at the University of Miami explain the more massage you get, the greater benefits you
reap.
Here’s Why
Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps
nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress.
While eliminating anxiety and pressure
altogether in this fast-paced world may
be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt,
help manage stress.
This translates into:
• Decreased anxiety.
• Enhanced sleep quality.
• Greater energy.
• Improved concentration.
• Increased circulation.
• Reduced fatigue.
Furthermore, clients often report a sense of
perspective and clarity after receiving a
massage. The emotional balance bodywork
provides can often be just as vital and
valuable as the more tangible physical
benefits.
Profound Effects
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout
the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:
• Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and
less stiffness and pain.
• Asthmatic children show better pulmonary
function and increased peak air flow.
• Burn injury patients report reduced pain,
itching, and anxiety.
• High blood pressure patients demonstrate
lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety,
and stress hormones.
• Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have
decreased water retention and cramping.
• Preterm infants have improved weight gain.
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch—which range from treating
chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of
modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively
embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and
neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating
on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat postsurgery or pain patients as part
of the recovery process.
Increase the Benefits with Frequent Visits
Here’s the beauty of bodywork: its benefits are compounded when massage is utilized as
a frequent therapy. The more you get, the more it does. Taking part in this form of
regularly-scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy
you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and
money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And
remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any less
therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and
wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best
meets your needs.
What are the Benefits of Frequent Massage and Bodywork?
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