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Most people know that massage therapy is a useful way to get rid of muscle soreness and certain sport injuries. However, less people know about its mental health benefits.
During a massage, mood-enhancing chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin are stimulated because the nerve cell receptors underneath the skin are pushed. In addition, massage encourages the release of endorphins, which give the body a feeling of tranquility.
A study published in Support Care Cancer Science a couple of years ago shows how receiving massage therapy can help in the treatment of depression. The study reported that participants in the study, who are breast cancer patients, experienced reduction in depression and anxiety after receiving half an hour of massage therapies weekly for five consecutive weeks.
Moreover, Taiwanese researchers have conducted a meta-analysis of 17 studies that shows how massage therapy alleviates symptoms of depression. Science shows the link between depression and low levels of serotonin. Since massage stimulates serotonin production, it helps in treating patients with depression. Although there is no definite cure for depression, massage therapies can aid people’s coping mechanisms.
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Massage also improves the sleep quality of people suffering from insomnia. The participants in a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reported experiencing an improved quality of sleep after a massage therapy.
Other studies suggest that receiving massage also helps in treating addictions, extreme negative feelings, and obsessions. After a great massage session, an individual should expect feeling of bliss, clarity of mind, reduced stress level, and increased energy and rational thinking.
Massage Envy Spa provides a wide variety of massage and spa services that include maximum therapeutic relief. It has over 900 clinics throughout the U.S. For more information on the benefits of massage therapy, follow this Facebook page.
