Massage therapy is a popular way to help manage stress and improve overall well-being. Here are some specific ways that massage can help with stress management:
- Massage reduces muscle tension: Tight muscles are a common symptom of stress. Massage can help relax and loosen muscles, which can in turn reduce overall tension in the body.
- Massage promotes relaxation: The act of receiving caring, therapeutic touch through a massage is inherently relaxing in and of itself, which can help to calm the mind and reduce feelings of stress.
- Massage decreases cortisol levels: Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress. Studies have shown that massage can help to lower cortisol levels in the body, which helps lead to a reduction in stress.
- Massage increases serotonin and dopamine: Serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters that help to regulate mood. Massage has been shown to increase levels of both of these chemicals in the body, which can lead to feelings of happiness and well-being.
Therapeutic massage can be a valuable tool in managing stress and promoting overall health and wellness.
Remember, managing stress is an ongoing process and it’s important to prioritize your mental health. If you are feeling constant, ongoing, overwhelming stress, you should seek professional help. But for day-to-day stress that, well, stresses you without overwhelming you, prioritizing self-care by doing things like practicing mindfulness or booking a massage will likely improve your overall wellbeing and help you lead a happier, healthier life.