Why have a massage?
Massage is a relatively recent name for the art of healing by touch and was first recorded during the second century BC in China. Despite its long history, the use of massage in mainstream western medicine is fairly recent whilst it has long been part of eastern medicine.
Massage is now widely recognised by the medical profession and there has been an increase in the use of complementary therapies within the NHS following recent reforms which have proved an opportunity for patients to consider alternative healthcare.
A massage gives a caring safe touch causing the following involuntary relaxation responses:
- Slows down heart and breathing rate
- Lowers blood pressure
- Facilitates the release of chemicals such as endorphins (the body’s own natural feel good hormones)
- Stimulates the blood circulation and lymphatic drainage
- Relaxes soft tissue, tendons and ligaments which releases nerves and deeper connective tissue
Massage consists of many different techniques to reduce painful contractions and muscle spasms. When stressed muscles relax the nerves are no longer compressed so they are able to receive the nutrients and oxygen delivered by an increase blood flow. Massage relieves muscle tension and it improves the circulation and lymphatic drainage.
The “fight or flight” response is our body’s primitive automatic reflex that prepares the body to fight or flee from attack or threat to survival. During this response the body under goes a series of changes. Rapid breathing takes place. The blood is directed away from the internal organs to muscles and limbs (running power), the pupils dilate, sight sharpens and pain diminishes. If these chemicals that are released from the brain are not used because they are not needed then over a period of time they may react harmfully on the body causing many different symptoms. Stress being one of them.
Stress can cause some of the following symptoms (which can also be present in many other illnesses):
- Palpitations
- Blood pressure rises
- Headaches/neck, shoulder and back ache
- Ulcers, diarrhoea, constipation, IBS
- Insomnia and fatigue
- Anger, depression, anxiety
The positive effect of massage therapy on stress can be felt very quickly by lowering blood pressure and heart rate, calming and soothing the nervous system to give an over all sense of well being. For long term benefits massage treatments should be received regularly.
In the Winter months a surprising number of people are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or a case of the “winter blues”. This is thought to be brought about by the reduced exposure to sunlight during the winter months. Sunlight has an affect on the body by releasing serotonin and regulating melatonin in the body. Less exposure to light can lower serotonin and increase melatonin levels in the body which needs to keep these hormones in balance to maintain a feeling of well being.
Some symptoms of SAD are:
- Disturbed sleep patterns
- A craving for carbohydrates and sweets leading to weight gain
- Fatigue, anti social tendencies, depression and irritability
- Stress
Massage therapy has been used in the treatment of SAD as it stimulates the production of serotonin and reduces stress, depression and anxiety. With Spring upon us, longer daylight hours and, hopefully, more sunshine will help to alleviate symptoms.
After a massage it is recommended to drink plenty of water to rehydrate the body. A balanced diet and regular exercise will also lead to a greater sense of well being.
It is time to make an investment in your health. A full body holistic massage (outside London) should cost around £35-£45 for a one hour treatment.
About the author
Judy Rossini is a complementary therapist practising Holistic massage, Hot Stone massage, Indian Head massage and Reiki. She runs her own business, Aurora Massage, in Lindfield, West Sussex and can be contacted on 01444 483437.
Article copyright YourDoc Medical Ltd 2010. All rights reserved.
