Benefits

Almost all healthy people have some condition that can be improved by massage.

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.

Alleviate and improve range of motion and low-back pain

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.

Strengthens the immune system

Massage increases body awareness and promotes deeper & easier breathing

Relieves headaches, menstrual cramps & backache

Promotes overall calmness & relaxation

Promotes healthier skin

Improves posture

Assists in the removal of toxins from the muscles and enhances sport performance

Provides greater range of motion and flexibility

Promotes more restful sleep

Reduces stiffness and muscle spasms

Reduced anxiety and improved mood, Reduced nor epinephrine levels (stress hormones)

Less back pain

Contraindications

Massage is a safe and beneficial health aid for everyone from infants to the elderly, except when certain contraindications are present. Massage may not be appropriate, or may require a physician’s approval, with the following:

Fever or infection

Acute inflammation or injury

Phlebitis or history of blood clots

Heart or lung conditions

Uncontrolled high blood pressure

Uncontrolled diabetes

Certain cancers

Massage is contraindicated during the first trimester of pregnancy because it can initiate spontaneous uterine contractions and lead to a miscarriage. If you are fewer than four months pregnant, or if you are currently trying to become pregnant, you should not receive massage. Once into your fourth month, massage is safe and effective in relieving the physical and emotional stress of pregnancy.