How Massage is Good for You in 2023? Advantages and Disadvantages

We live in a world where we are constantly on the go. Whether it’s work, school, or just general life responsibilities, people often put their own needs last and forget to take care of themselves.

We all know that self-care is crucial for our mental and physical health but how do we make time for it?

Well, luckily there is an easy way out – getting a massage!

Sounds too good to be true? It’s not!

Massage therapy has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation which leads to many other benefits such as improved sleep quality and better moods.

So what does this mean for you? Keep reading below to find out more about how massage can help you stay healthy both mentally and physically.

Is Massage Good for You?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft body tissues with pressure from hands, forearms, or elbows. This can be used to help treat a wide range of medical conditions, including muscle pain or injuries.

Massage therapy is helpful for stress relief, injury rehabilitation and general wellness maintenance by improving blood flow, increasing range of motion and reducing pain.

Massage therapy is often used as a complementary treatment for cancer patients to help manage the side effects of cancer treatments. Massage is also used to ease the discomfort associated with other medical conditions, including arthritis and osteoporosis.

Massages can be taken as part of a wellness maintenance program or can be used for stress relief and injury rehabilitation. Patients who are looking to reduce pain and maintain general wellness may choose to take massage therapy.

Massage should not be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment or diagnosis, but rather should be used in conjunction with standard medical treatment.

The goal of massage therapy isn’t necessarily to get the patient “high”, but rather for them to feel relaxed and at peace.

Advantages of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is beneficial in many ways. It can:

1. Boost Immunity (the massage stimulates the production of white blood cells, which fight infection)
2. Reduce Anxiety & Depression (by calming the nervous system and reducing stress hormones in circulation)
3. Improve Sleep Quality (by reducing stress hormones and increasing serotonin production, a chemical that makes us feel happy)
4. Increase Range of Motion (by relaxing contracted muscles)
5. Reduce Chronic Pain (by increasing range of motion and improving sleep)
6. Enhance Digestion (through the relaxation response which stimulates digestive enzymes, bile and digestive activity)
7. Reduce Headaches (through relieving tension, improving blood flow to the head, neck & face areas by releasing trigger points and increasing range of motion)

Disadvantages of Massage Therapy

Although massage therapy has many benefits, it can have negative effects when not taken properly. If you experience any of the following during a massage session, please inform your massage therapist:

1. Pregnancy (massage is generally safe for pregnant women, however, it’s best to communicate with your doctor first)
2. Allergies (to oil, scents, or latex – please inform your massage therapist before the session starts)
3. High Blood Pressure (massage can lower blood pressure, so it’s best to inform your doctor if you have high blood-pressure)
4. Cardiovascular Conditions (a massage could cause the heart rate to increase, so it’s best not to have a full-body massage if you suffer from cardiovascular conditions)
5. Epilepsy (please inform your massage therapist if you have epilepsy)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is massage therapy safe?

Massage is generally very safe if given by an experienced therapist. There are some contraindications such as pregnancy.

Can I receive massage therapy during my period?

Yes, there are no problems with receiving a massage at this time. However, some women may experience cramping from deep tissue work.

Can I receive massage therapy if I have a cold?

Yes, you can still receive massage therapy if you have a cold. However, there is no reason to push yourself beyond what your body can handle at this time.

Can I receive massage therapy if I’m menstruating?

Yes, there are no problems with receiving a massage at this time. However, some women may experience cramping from deep tissue work.

What does a massage do to your body?

A massage can improve health and well being by increasing circulation, releasing muscular tension, and reducing stress.

How often should I have a massage?

A massage should be taken as part of a wellness maintenance program, or can be used for stress relief and injury rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Massage Therapy is widely used for all sorts of health issues. Patients who are looking to reduce pain and maintain general wellness may choose to take massage therapy. For individuals looking to receive massage therapy, it’s important that they understand the benefits and potential risks associated with this type of treatment before receiving it.