The Science of Relaxation – Understanding the Benefits of Massage and Spa Treatments
Spa treatments like lymphatic drainage massage and colon hydrotherapy can do wonders whether you’re trying to lose weight or improve your athletic performance. These treatments help your body burn more calories and increase tissue elasticity.
Reduces Stress and Tension
During a massage, stroking, kneading, and warming skin and muscles encourage the body to relax. It releases tension and stress, reducing cortisol levels and boosting serotonin.
A massage can break down muscle “knots” or stiff and tight tissue bands that obstruct circulation and cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. This treatment also helps to improve flexibility and accelerates the recovery process after injury.
Besides releasing positive hormones like endorphins and serotonin, massage reduces negative stress by encouraging psychological relaxation. It is essential when the body experiences both physical and mental stress.
When the body is stressed, it triggers a fight-or-flight response, which can lead to a build-up of toxins and inflammation. Massage & spa treatment help to prevent this by strengthening the immune system and lowering inflammation. It enables the body to stay healthy and strong. That is why regular massage and spa treatments are essential for maintaining health.
Improves Sleep
It’s no secret that good sleep is crucial for our mental and physical health. If you have trouble falling asleep at night, getting a massage regularly can help you feel more rested and sleep better.
One reason is that massage reduces cortisol levels, contributing to poor sleep. Serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters linked to emotions of happiness and well-being, are also elevated by it.
Another way that massage promotes sleep is by relieving pain. Studies have shown that people who regularly receive massage experience less pain and a more comfortable night’s sleep.
Getting enough quality sleep can help prevent stress-related diseases, including heart disease and high blood pressure. Regularly incorporate massage and spa treatments into your routine to improve your sleep. You’ll be amazed at how much of a difference it makes! And remember to tune in next week when we look at a few relaxation techniques.
Relieves Headaches
For some, a day in the spa may be all they need to beat headache pain. Tight scalp, face, neck, and jaw muscles usually cause tension headaches. They can be triggered by stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, certain foods or medications. Whether they are due to a hectic work schedule, family situation, or just life’s stressors, regular massage can help relieve tension headaches.
Studies have shown that massage decreases the frequency of headaches in people who suffer from migraines or tension-related ones. The pain intensity and duration were also reduced in the study participants who received massages compared to those who did not.
Reduces Anxiety
In addition to reducing anxiety, massage can lower blood pressure and reduce a patient’s heart rate. Studies have shown that massage decreases the sympathetic nervous system response to stress, which is responsible for raising blood pressure.
In one study, participants received a deep tissue massage or read magazines while researchers measured their heart rates and electrodermal activity. Those who received the massage experienced a significant decrease in heart rate and state of tension compared to those who had just read magazines.
In a separate experiment, researchers exposed participants to the scent of oranges and found that those who smelled the orange fragrance showed increased calmness. That could be why many spa treatments incorporate the use of aromatherapy. For example, a lymphatic drainage massage involves the application of specialized oils that can help ease muscle tension and stimulate the flow of lymph, which assists in detoxification. This treatment is beneficial for those who have insomnia.
