BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY

Massage, one of the oldest forms of healing known to mankind, is now at the forefront of integrative medicine. It is one of the most effective treatments for relieving stress and tension, which causes or contributes to 70-80% of the diseases and ailments that plague our modern society. Studies show that massage enhances immune function and lowers levels of the stress hormones cortisol and nor epinephrine. It also facilitates the release of food absorption hormones like insulin. At Miami’s Touch Research Institute, research has shown that massage has a positive effect on every malady studied thus far, from colic in newborns to asthma, diabetes, and migraines.The healing effects of massage are not surprising. We all know how good it feels and how it makes us feel better when someone touches us. That is because touch stimulates the brain to produce endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators and pain suppressors. In fact, in embryo, the skin, the largest organ of the body, develops from the same tissue as the brain; it monitors and regulates the body’s relationship to its external environment as the brain monitors and regulates the body’s internal environment. An example that we are all familiar with is the way skin regulates body temperature by perspiring when we are hot or getting goose bumps when we are cold. Studies show that a simple touch can improve the heart rate and reduce blood pressure.Massage also improves one’s psychological health. Documented studies have shown that massage reduces feelings of anxiety and anger, enhances feelings of well-being and harmony, and increases mental clarity. According to Life magazine (August, 1997), "After the Oklahoma bombing, volunteer therapists gave massages to exhausted rescue workers, numbed survivors and overworked pathologists. The state medical examiner observed that the massage therapists were accomplishing more in 15 minutes than psychologists could in an hour or two."

WHAT MASSAGE CAN DO FOR YOU

Physical Level
Deep relaxation and stress reduction
Relief of muscle tension, stiffness and spasm
Improved posture, joint flexibility and range of motion
Deeper, easier breathing
Better circulation of blood and lymph
Reduced blood pressure
Relief of eyestrain, sinus congestion and headaches
Healthier, more beautiful skin
Faster healing from surgery and injuries; reduced formation of scar tissue
Enhanced immune function and disease prevention

Mental/Emotional Level
Reduced mental stress, a calm mind
Improved ability to monitor stress signals
Increased mental clarity
Satisfies the need for nurturing and touch
Reduction of anxiety, depression, confusion, anger
Enhanced body-mind awareness
Feeling of well-being and harmony