Wednesday, March 13, 2013

The Benefits Of Massage Therapy And How It Works

By Shane McConnell


One should never try to fix what is not broken, and this is the perspective therapists have taken with massage therapy. It has been around since some 460 B.C., and it is still in full practice today. The techniques employed by massage therapists vary in Eastern and Western cultures, in that some tend to remain traditional while others are constantly expanding their horizons. In any sense, visiting a masseuse can prove to be extremely beneficial to anyone.

In its practice, massage therapy essentially means physically stimulating the muscles and tissues both superficial and deep beneath the skin. These movements, depending on which technique is being practice, could mean simply employing motion onto the muscles, or it could mean applying vibration or tension to them. The target of these movements ranges from tendons, muscles, and ligaments to even gastrointestinal organs.

There are many goals associated with giving or receiving a massage. It is said that it will promote the function and maintenance of the muscles or areas affected. Receiving a massage is also meant to be very relaxing and thus promotes a person's general well-being. The techniques can be applied to the body via the masseuse's hands, elbows, fingers, and forearms as well as the feet and the knees.

Studies show that there are many advantages to receiving this practice. As demonstrated by the fact that it is commonly used in treating injured or strained athletes, it is a good way to promote pain relief and strained muscles. A person can also experience reduced blood pressure, a feeling of relaxation, and relief from anxiety. Research also suggests that consistent sessions may prove to have long-term results like more permanent pain relief and even reduced risk of certain diseases.

Chemical advantages to the practice do exist as well. For example, it is thought to be a major stimulant of the parasympathetic nervous system, and thus the glands will release more endorphins as well as serotonin. This practice can also help to reduce scar tissue and excessive connective tissue, which is great for appearance as well as pain. In addition, one may find it easier to sleep afterward.

A person does not need to be sore and achy in order to have reason to seek out massage therapy. Even those in great health can benefit from the practice in terms of mood, energy, muscle function, and blood flow. There is a reason that this practice has transcended so many years of use and is considered one of the most important facets of health maintenance in cultures across the globe.




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