When we think about booking a massage treatment, we often relate it either with luxury Spas and upscale health clubs, or with when we experience physical pain for which we need physical therapy. Massage is not, however, only about relaxation or pain relief, it has several health benefits and an important one in today’s society is that it can release stress.
Talking about stress in general, it is anything that poses a challenge or a threat to our well-being. Associated with both minor and major health ailments, relieving stress is an important component of maintaining emotional and physical well-being. Plenty of research has found that massage therapy is an ideal stress relief tool.
Moreover, research has found a lot of benefits of massage apart from releasing stress. It has shown that it can lower our heart rate and blood pressure, relax our muscles and increase the production of endorphins, our body’s natural “feel good” chemical. Serotonin and dopamine are also released through massage, and the result is a feeling of calm relaxation that makes chronic or habitual as well as acute or short-term stress much easier to overcome.
As you can see, stress relief is one of the main benefits of massage therapy. It’s also a key component for anyone trying to achieve a healthier lifestyle.
But do keep in mind that even though the side effects of massage are rarely dangerous, not just anyone can give a true therapeutic massage, so make sure to seek the services of a licensed massage therapist. This way you will find significant changes in emotional states and stress levels.
Have you yourself found that massage has helped you feel less stressed out? We would love to hear your story!
Wishing you a stress-free day ahead,
Massage Around the World team