Massage is something that many of us have had at some time or another however do we really know what the benefits of it are on our stress levels. In this article we will look at the history of massage, what stress is and how massage can help with stress relief.

What is Massage?

Massage can take various different forms but generally involve the working of the skin. Massage can be light touch that just works on the surface of the body or deep tissue which will involve manipulation of the muscles and deep tissues of the body. The type that you go for will depend on your physical condition and also your preferences.

Although many may not be aware but massage is an ancient therapy and it written about in ancient Chinese texts dating back over 4,000 years. The therapy was advocated as medical treatment by doctors from Hippocrates in the 4th century BC up until the 1930s when it was all but abandoned. However in the 1970s and going forward massage has become more important in medical treatment and is now widely recognised as very valuable.

What is Stress?

Stress can take different forms for different people. Many people will experience stress at some time, for example during illness, a divorce, moving house or when a loved one dies. You may also experience stress on a daily basis due to your job or just pressures on your life. If suffered for any length of time it can have a serious effect on your life both emotionally and physically. For that reason it is important to look for ways to reduce your stress levels to maintain good health.

Massage for Stress Relief

There are a number of reasons why massage can reduce stress and so we have put together a list of reasons below:

1. Removal of tension - the process of massage involves manipulating the muscles which can help to remove tension from them. This can be particularly valuable as when people suffer with stress it often results in increased tension in the muscles, particularly in the neck, back and shoulders. Relieving this tension can help a person to feel a lot more relaxed and less stressed.

2. Reduced Heart Rate - many people who suffer from stress may find that their heart rate and blood pressure increase. The process of massage can help to reduce the heart rate and blood pressure and so reducing the feelings of stress.

3. Release of Endorphins - during massage many people will find that endorphins which help someone to feel happy are released and this can work on increasing a person’s mood and reducing stress. The reason for this can be to do with physical manipulation however it could also be related to the human contact. The act of touch can have a significant effect on a person’s emotion and could be a good reason for the lift in mood.

Conclusion

If you are feeling stressed then a massage could have significant benefits. Whether it is a quick massage at lunch or a day at a spa they could both be very helpful. If you are going to have a massage it is important to have a think about the type of massage you want. You will then be able to find a qualified therapist in your area.