Healing And Relaxation: Benefits Of Massage

1. Decreased muscle stress. Any of your body muscles can benefit from a stimulating massage. From you eyes to your colon, each part can improve blood circulation and increase flexibility with the aid of proper massage. For example, close your eyes and use your thumb and forefinger to gently massage the brow and cheekbones around each eye. For the nether regions, lie on a flat surface and use your hand to massage first one side of your abdomen, then the other, by rubbing firmly but gently. Limbs, torso, and head will enjoy the advantages that massage brings, whether conducted by a professional or yourself. You will feel each area slowly relax and warm to the touch with each stroke of the hands.

2. Improved circulation. Massage your torso while lying prone and feel the surge of renewed circulatory invigoration. You can literally sense the warm sensation of dilating arteries and veins that comes from comfortable manipulation of central body muscles. Rubbing the shoulders will improve back circulation. Massaging the thighs can enhance blood flow to the feet. Rubbing your cheeks can make your entire face come alive. If you suspect you may have blood clots, however, be careful about massaging your legs or groin until you check with the doctor, as this may cause a clot to burst loose and head straight for your heart or lungs, leading to potentially serious complications.

3. Total body relaxation. Getting a professional or personal massage can promote an overall sense of well being. As nerve impulse conductors move the stimulus from one receptor to another throughout your body, each part will begin to relax and bask in a delightful sensation of comfort and rest. Added to the actual massage is the idea of placing the body at rest on a flat surface usually and perhaps removing some clothing in a low-key environment. All of these things can lead to a release of stress hormones and an increase in seratonin, the feel-good hormone.

4. Enhanced relationship. If you exchange massages with a spouse or close friend, you can talk or mingle affection with therapy as you work on relieving each tense group of muscles. Women often mention massage as a prerequisite to intimacy, and men likewise enjoy the physical attention that a massage brings with it, from a friendly foot rub to a shoulder workout that can leave one feeling absolutely wonderful. Even if you have a professional masseuse do your massages, you will develop a greater level of trust and collegiality with the person to whom you entrust your physique.

The next time you want to show affection to a loved one or offer a meaningful gift, send a card entitling the receiver to a certain amount of time for massages or backrubs. Or buy a gift certificate to a health spa or sports center for a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion. Physical massage can lower stress levels, improve immune function, provide social interaction, and enhance personal relationships. What are you waiting for?