Berkeley Massage + Self-Healing Center

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.