Stress and anxiety have become increasingly common problems in modern society. With busy work schedules, personal relationships, financial worries, and other stressors, it is no wonder that so many people suffer from anxiety and stress-related disorders. While there are many treatments available, massage therapy is one of the most effective and natural ways to relieve stress and anxiety.
How Massage Therapy Reduces Stress & Anxiety
Massage therapy has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and ease tension in the muscles; it works by manipulating the soft tissues in the body, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue. Through various techniques, including kneading, rubbing, and stroking, massage therapists can effectively stimulate the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.
Increases Production of Neurotransmitters
One of the ways in which massage therapy helps to reduce stress and anxiety is by increasing the production of serotonin and dopamine in the body. These neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating mood, and by increasing their production, massage therapy can help to promote feelings of happiness and well-being.
Reduces Cortisol Levels
Massage therapy can also help to reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Cortisol is released by the body in response to stress, and at high levels, it can cause a range of negative effects including weight gain, sleep problems, and weakened immune function. By reducing cortisol levels, massage therapy can help to alleviate the negative effects of stress on the body.
Enhances Relaxation
In addition to the physiological effects of massage therapy, it also has psychological benefits. Massage therapy can be a deeply relaxing experience, and by promoting relaxation and reducing tension in the body, it can help to alleviate feelings of anxiety and stress. Moreover, the simple act of taking time out of one's busy schedule to receive a massage can be a form of self-care, which is an essential part of managing stress and anxiety.
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Wellness
Massage therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments for stress and anxiety, such as other holistic services like sound bath meditations or wellness workshops. By combining massage therapy with other treatments, individuals can benefit from a multi-faceted approach to managing stress and anxiety.
Customize Your Treatment
It is worth noting that massage therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach for reducing stress and anxiety. Certain modalities can be more suitable than others based on your body's needs. For example, deep tissue massage, which involves applying firm pressure to the muscles, might be better for those experiencing the physical manifestations of stress like tight muscles and generalized tension. On the other hand, more gentle techniques, such as Swedish massage or craniosacral therapy may be more appropriate for those who are sensitive to pressure and are experiencing more psychological effects of anxiety. Here at Resolve Wellness, you can even combine different elements in a unique massage session to best suit your needs.
Massage therapy is a safe and effective way to manage stress and anxiety. By promoting relaxation, reducing tension in the muscles, and stimulating the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, massage therapy can help to alleviate the physical and psychological symptoms of stress and anxiety. While massage therapy may not be a cure-all for stress and anxiety, it is an important tool that can be used in conjunction with other treatments to help you lead a more relaxed and fulfilling life.
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Resolve Wellness can help reduce your stress & anxiety levels! Our massage therapists create customized sessions based on your body's physical and psychological needs to restore your body to optimal wellness.
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Ariela Liberman is a Marketing Associate and a staff writer for Resolve Wellness, with a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies. Born and raised in San Diego, she is a Southern California native with a passion for writing, digital marketing, health, and wellness.
Reviewed by: Erynne Hill, MS, ATC, HHP, BFRC, a Nationally Certified Athletic Trainer and Massage Therapist who has been a part of the healthcare field since 2002. She is the Director of Resolve Wellness, specializing in manual lymphatic drainage and prenatal massage. Erynne has extensive knowledge of both massage and physiology, even receiving her Master's degree in Exercise Physiology from San Diego State University.