Science-Backed Benefits of Massage

Science-Backed Benefits of Massage

Massage therapy is a simple and effective way to improve your physical and mental wellbeing. It is the scientific manipulation of the body’s soft tissues that involves pressing, rubbing, stroking and kneading your muscles, tendons and ligaments with the use of fingers, hands, knees, feet or elbows. Sometimes, different mechanical devices are used to perform a massage. Pressure may range from light stroking to deep pressure. Although massage is standard when it comes to maxing relaxation, it can also bring you numerous health benefits. Below you can read about some science-backed benefits of a massage.

Benefits of Massage

Massage is commonly considered as a part of integrative medicine. It is widely advised by professionals alongside standard treatments for a range of medical conditions.

1. Increased happy hormones

Regular massage can help alleviate depression, anxiety and stress. As per a research study published by the International Journal of Neuroscience, on average, massage increases your levels of dopamine (a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation and reward) by 31% and serotonin (a neurotransmitter associated with happiness) by 28%.

2. Strengthened immunity

Massage can strengthen your immune system by regulating the release of white blood cells that help in fighting the common cold as well as promoting overall wellness. According to a study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, after a 45-minute of massage therapy, recipients had considerably higher levels of blood proteins, which are vital in protecting the body from viral infections and tumours, compared to others.

3. Reduced pain

Whether you have chronic pain or poor posture from sitting at a desk all day, massage can help to increase blood flow throughout the body to reduce inflammation and release toxins, relieving you from any muscle tension . Besides pills, surgeons and physicians are now recommending massage as a natural means to relieve lower back and other aches and improve pain symptoms.

4. Improved flexibility

If you’ve been feeling stiffness in your body, getting a massage could help improve your range of motion and flexibility by increasing flexion performance and alleviating pain in the trunk. Research published in the International Journal of Neuroscience states that getting a couple of 30-minute massages per week can improve flexibility.

5. Better sleep quality

Body massaging produces a calming and relaxing effect. Pressure applied during a massage triggers the production of melatonin, a hormone your body releases for sleep. It also releases endorphins that reduce your heart rate, breathing and muscle tension while increasing circulation. If you have insomnia, booking a late-night massage just before your bedtime can help you get quality sleep.

6. Headache relief

Massage is a natural way to ease pain associated with migraines or chronic tension headaches in an effective way. Headaches are often caused by stress, low energy levels or poor circulation. Stimulating pressure points through gentle pressures can increase blood flow to the heart and release hormones that induce relaxation.

To know more about the massage therapy services we offer at FCBS Dubai, call us on +971 4 3255481 or email us at info@fcbsglobal.com.