How can massage help?
Massage can..
.. help to soften and heal tense, painful and traumatised muscles
A buildup of toxins such as lactic acid can cause muscle stiffness. Kneading and squeezing can improve circulation, effectively removing these toxins. If a muscle is overworked or is suddenly contracted very strongly, muscle fibres can tear. Scar tissue forms at the site of injury. Scar tissue is non elastic and non contractile, making the muscle less effective than before, and more prone to injury. Deep tissue frictions and stretches can help disperse scar tissue and encourage circulation back to the site, encouraging formation of healthy muscle fibres. Being mentally relaxed also encourages the muscles to let go of some of their habitual and often unnecessary tension.
.. help to increase vitality and energy levels
Stimulation of the body’s systems via regular massage can encourage optimum levels of vitality and energy. Massage can also reduce stress, helping this process further.
.. lessen anxiety and stress
By stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system - slowing down the action of some internal organs (eg the heart) - massage reminds us what true relaxation feels like. Experiencing this on a regular basis can help us become more aware of our daily stress levels. This awareness can help us to combat stress before it becomes chronic and damaging.
.. promote a sense of calm and wellbeing
The calming and healing nature of touch has been recognised all over the world, throughout time. This, coupled with the fact that you are the total focus of the therapist for the duration of the session, means that massage provides a unique space to recapture our own natural calm and wellbeing.
.. stimulate the immune system
Prolonged stress can compromise the immune system. Massage stimulates the flow of lymph, the body's natural defence system. Regular massage can help to keep our defences and immune system strong.
.. encourage better and deeper sleep
Good quality sleep helps us, as we all know, to recover from fatigue, to cope with stress and to speed up the healing process. People invariably report that their sleep following a massage is deep and uninterrupted. This may be because of an increase in serotonin levels.
.. ease headaches
We get headaches for many reasons, some of which may relate to tight and tense muscles in the head, neck and shoulders. Massage to these muscles along with the general relaxation encouraged by massage can lessen headaches.
.. improve circulation and general health of tissues / skin
Pollution, smoking, lack of exercise and poor nutrition can all result in skin looking dull and lifeless. Massage encourages better circulation, therefore more efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells and more efficient toxin removal. This can help skin to retain its elasticity and vitality.
These are just a few of the benefits of massage, short term and longer term if enjoyed regularly.
Call me on 07761 140850 for more information and to make an appointment
Treatment rooms in London: Highgate N6