Benefits of Massage and Bodywork

Beyond simply “feeling good,” massage and bodywork modalities have an impressive range of therapeutic effects and benefits, many of which have been documented in research studies in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

A skilled massage therapist/bodyworker not only stretches and loosens muscle and connective tissue, but also greatly improves blood circulation to the heart and the movement of lymph fluid throughout the body. The therapist’s hands speed the removal of metabolic wastes resulting from exercise or inactivity, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the cells, tissues, and organs. Sensory receptors in skin and muscles awaken, 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 life energy throughout the body. In addition, massage can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, into the brain and nervous system. All this translates into an amazing number of tangible results.

At the physical level, benefits include:

• Deep relaxation and stress reduction
• Relief of muscle tension and stiffness
• Reduced muscle spasm and joint pain
• Greater joint flexibility and range of motion
• Enhanced athletic performance
• Increased ease and efficiency of movement
• Increased energy
• Promotes deeper and easier breathing
• Improves ability to sleep
• Lowers blood pressure
• Better circulation of blood and lymph fluids
• Relief of tension-related headaches and eyestrain
• Healthier, better nourished skin
• Improved posture
• Faster healing time from pulled muscles and sprained ligaments; reduced spasm, pain, and swelling; and reduced formation of scar tissue
• Strengthened immune system and disease prevention
• Health maintenance

At the mental level, benefits include:

• Relaxed state of alertness
• Reduced mental stress; a calmer mind
• Greater ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately
• Increased capacity for clearer thinking
• Lessens depression

At the emotional level, benefits include:

• Satisfying the need for caring and nurturing touch
• Feeling of well-being
• Greater ease of emotional expression
• Enhanced self-image
• Reduced levels of anxiety
• Increased awareness of the mind-body connection
• A sense of being unified and in harmony

If you would like to explore research about the therapeutic benefits of massage and other touch therapies, click on http://www.miami.edu/touch-research/Massage1.html.