Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress-related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. Massage is an effective tool for managing this stress, which translates into:
- Decreased anxiety.
- Enhanced sleep quality.
- Greater energy.
- Improved concentration.
- Increased circulation.
- Reduced fatigue.
Massage can also help specifically address a number of health issues. Bodywork can:
- Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.
- Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.
- Ease medication dependence.
- Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body's natural defense system.
- Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
- Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.
- Improve the condition of the body's largest organ—the skin.
- Increase joint flexibility.
- Lessen depression and anxiety.
- Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
- Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
- Reduce postsurgery adhesions and swelling.
- Reduce spasms and cramping.
- Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
- Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller.
- Relieve migraine pain.
Current research indicates that postpartum massage is tied to lower levels of depression and cortisol, which can prevent or minimize Post-Partum Depression, better breastmilk production, faster uterine restoration, and better bonding between parent and child. For detailed studies on the effects of massage on pregnancy and postpartum recovery, please visit:
Reduction of perineal trauma and postpartum complications: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32399905/
Improved breastmilk production: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32204253/
Increased oxytocin levels: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32204240/
Increased prolactin levels: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32204242/
Postpartum uterine restoration: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32204145/