30/10/2023
After a massage treatment, the body undergoes various physiological and psychological changes. These changes are the result of the therapist's techniques and the body's natural responses to the massage. Here's what happens to the body after a massage, with references to support the information:
Relaxation Response: Massage promotes relaxation by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormone levels. [Field, T. (2014). Massage therapy research review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 20(4), 224-229.]
Pain Reduction: Massage can provide pain relief by increasing the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. It also helps reduce muscle tension and trigger point activity. [Moraska, A. (2008). Sports massage: A comprehensive review. Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 48(4), 434-442.]
Improved Blood Circulation: Massage techniques like effleurage and petrissage can enhance blood flow to the muscles, leading to improved circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues. [Tiidus, P. M. (2010). Manual massage and recovery of muscle function following exercise: A literature review. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 40(3), 174-180.]
Increased Lymphatic Flow: Massage helps move lymphatic fluid, which carries waste products away from the body's tissues. This can boost the immune system and reduce swelling. [Bakar, Y., Tatar, Y., & Günaydin, G. (2013). The effects of preoperative massage on the blood lymphocyte number and the anxiety level of patients. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 19(3), 131-134.]
Muscle Relaxation: The pressure applied during a massage helps relax and lengthen muscles, reducing muscle tension and pain. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with muscle tightness or spasms. [Weerapong, P., Hume, P. A., & Kolt, G. S. (2005). The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery and injury prevention. Sports Medicine, 35(3), 235-256.]
Enhanced Flexibility: Massage can increase joint flexibility by breaking down adhesions and scar tissue, which allows for a greater range of motion. [Benjamin, B., & Tappan, F. M. (2009). Tappan's Handbook of Massage Therapy: Blending Art with Science (6th ed.). Pearson.]
Emotional Well-Being: Massage often induces a sense of relaxation and emotional well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. It can also help improve sleep quality. [Moyer, C. A., Rounds, J., & Hannum, J. W. (2004). A meta-analysis of massage therapy research. Psychological Bulletin, 130(1), 3-18.]
Enhanced Mind-Body Connection: A massage session can promote a stronger connection between the mind and body, increasing body awareness and mindfulness. [Gard, G., & Kvist, J. (2006). The experience of massage. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 10(4), 238-245.]
Toxin Elimination: Massage may help the body eliminate metabolic waste products by stimulating the circulatory and lymphatic systems. [Crane, J. D., Ogborn, D. I., Cupido, C., Melov, S., Hubbard, A., Bourgeois, J. M., & Tarnopolsky, M. A. (2012). Massage therapy attenuates inflammatory signaling after exercise-induced muscle damage. Science Translational Medicine, 4(119), 119ra13.]
Skin Benefits: The manipulation of the skin during a massage can help exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin, leaving it softer and more radiant. [Imokawa, G., Sumura, K., Katagiri, K., Higaki, Y., & Deodorizing effect of a massage gel containing menthoxypropanediol. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 31(4), 255-261.]
It's important to note that the specific effects of a massage can vary based on the type of massage, the therapist's techniques, and the individual's unique response to the treatment. For the most accurate information on the physiological and psychological changes that occur after a massage, it's recommended to consult with a licensed massage therapist or refer to scientific studies on massage therapy.
Harmony Healing Remedial Massage