Massage Therapy: What You Need To Know

As incredible as the human body is, everyday rigours can quickly wear it down. Many of us live with muscle pains, anxiety, headaches, joint pain and similar ailments that affect our day-to-day performance and overall health.

Fortunately, there’s a simple solution.

Massage is one of the simplest and most effective physical remedies available today. Offered as both complementary medical and relaxation treatment, massage therapy works in a variety of ways to help people lead more comfortable lives.

But what does massage actually involve? Below, we list a few ways massage benefits both mind and body.

The relaxing state brought on by massage allows endorphins — your body’s wellbeing hormones — to be released. Along with your muscles relaxing, expect your heart and breathing rate to slow as a sense of calm takes over.

This eased state of mind helps decrease the effects of stress and related risks, such as hypertension, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue and the reduced production of stress hormones adrenaline, cortisol and norepinephrine.

The kneading of muscles during a massage has two major physical effects:

circulation improvement and tissue relaxation.

Circulation improvement is made possible from the physical relaxation of the soft tissue, which releases nerves and deeper connective tissues. Improved circulation delivers oxygen-rich blood to tense and damaged muscles, greatly speeding up the recovery process.

Tissue relaxation reduces painful contractions, spasms and in some cases, nerve compression. By relaxing tense, sensitive tissue through careful massage, you’ll notice less general discomfort and aches and increased flexibility.

Massage is all about remedying specific issues, so it’s important to tell a massage therapist about any symptoms you might have and what you’re wanting to get out of massage. Then, your massage therapist can explain the massage techniques used to alleviate any issues.

During the massage your therapist will be kneading, holding, moving, and applying pressure to different areas of your body, including your muscles, tendons, ligaments and connective tissue.

A massage should be completely tailored to you, so don’t be afraid to speak up. Request a firmer massage if you find you enjoy it, but if the massage becomes uncomfortable, ask for lessened pressure. Muscle knots may be sensitive when pressure is applied, but it’s often important to work these out to help your muscles relax in the long-term.

Multiple studies have shown that massage is one effective way to treat and prevent stress, pain and muscle tension. If you’ve been experiencing muscular aches and pains or are needing to unwind after a tough week or two at work, massage may be the perfect remedy for you.

If you’d like to learn more about massage, or experience a professional massage for yourself at Soul Sista Massage, send an email to cat@soulsistamassage.com.au or call us on 0413 941 906.