7 Things We Learned About Massage Therapy And Mental Health

What Is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is the practice of manipulating soft tissue in order to promote relaxation, reduce pain and anxiety, improve circulation, and increase physical and mental well-being. Massage therapists use different types of massage techniques such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, trigger point therapy, and reflexology.

What Are The Benefits Of Massage For Mental Health?

Did you know that massage therapy can be beneficial for mental health? In fact, a recent study found that massage therapy can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and increase overall well-being. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of massage therapy for mental health!

1. Massage therapy can help reduce stress and anxiety:

Research shows that massage therapy is an effective way to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Studies have found that massage can lower levels of cortisol (the “stress hormone”), increase serotonin production (a neurotransmitter associated with happiness and well-being), and improve mood.

2. Massage therapy can reduce symptoms of PTSD:

A study conducted in 2018 showed that massage therapy was able to significantly reduce the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in veterans who had recently returned from active duty. This study also showed that massage could decrease depression symptoms, improve sleep quality, and increase self-esteem in these individuals.

3. Massage therapy can improve sleep quality:

Massage therapy is a great way to relieve tension and stress, which can often interfere with getting a good night’s sleep. A study conducted in 2017 showed that massage could increase the total amount of time spent sleeping, as well as enhance deep (or slow-wave) sleep, which is essential for physical and mental recovery.

4. Massage therapy may help reduce chronic pain:

Research has found that massage therapy can be an effective treatment for chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and lower back pain. Studies have shown that people who receive regular massage sessions experience less pain intensity, improved range of motion, reduced muscle tension, and decreased levels of depression associated with living with chronic pain.

5. Massage therapy can improve physical performance:

Studies have suggested that massage can be beneficial for athletes, as it can reduce muscle tension, enhance flexibility and range of motion, and improve overall physical performance. Regular massage sessions may also help to prevent injuries in athletes.

6. Massage therapy may boost the immune system:

Research has found that massage therapy may have a positive effect on the immune system, as it reduces stress hormones (which are known to suppress the immune system) and increases sebum production (a natural skin oil linked with improved immunity).

7. Massage therapy is a safe treatment option:

While there are many medical treatments available for mental health issues, not all of them are safe or effective. One of the great things about massage therapy is that it can be used as a safe, natural treatment option for many mental health issues.

So what did we learn? Massage therapy is a great way to improve mental health, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. It’s also a safe treatment option that can be used alongside other treatments for mental health conditions. If you’re looking for an effective and affordable way to improve your mental health, call The Sanctuary Pleasant Hill LLC today! They offer massage therapy services that can help you feel your best.