Getting a massage can be an excellent way to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind, especially after a hard day’s work. But, massages are capable of benefiting you in more ways than just plain relaxation. In fact, research has shown that massages can contribute to the overall health of our body and may even help indirectly with weight loss. So, here are a few ways in which a massage can contribute to your overall well-being.
Abdominal massage
There are quite a few benefits that come with abdominal massages. A study conducted by the National Institute of Health in 2009, found that abdominal massages lead to better digestion, bowel movement and reduction in abdominal pain. Another study conducted by the American Massage Therapy Association showed that a full body massage, which includes the abdominal massage, can help boost the immune system, reduce blood pressure, increase lymphatic flow, reduce pain, reduce edema, and ultimately eliminate stress and anxiety.
A full body massage also boost’s your metabolism which directly contributes to the weight loss process.
Better motion and flexibility
Getting a massage right after a good workout session can help your muscles achieve flexibility and better motion. The flexibility can help you work out more efficiently in the future and burn more calories. For instance, if your workout involves a swimming session, then a good shoulder and ankle massage can help you relax and prepare your muscles for more efficient performance. Massages can also help reduce muscle soreness, which will help you stay motivated and encouraged to continue with your workout.
Detox
When we exercise on a regular basis, our muscles tend to accumulate waste products such as carbonic acid and lactic acid. These waste products can interfere with the muscle recovery process which affects our ability to workout. Getting a good massage in between workouts helps improve the body’s circulation, which further helps in flushing out these toxins. This improves the recovery period for our muscles and helps us continue our exercises for extended periods.
Muscle development
Muscles require nutrients to recover from the strain of an intense workout session. Since, massages are known to improve circulation; they help the muscles receive these nutrients as well as oxygen through the blood. A full body massage is also known to regulate the transfer of nutrients between the bloodstream and the tissue cells.
Once the muscles receive the nutrients, it helps them recover faster, which leads to better growth and development. Well-developed muscles also help you lose weight since they burn calories even when you are at rest.
Stress busting
Eliminating stress and anxiety is probably the number one reason why people get massages in the first place. A good full body massage can help regulate the production of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the body and is commonly referred to as the ‘stress hormone’. Cortisol is generally beneficial to certain functions within the body but too much of it can lead to anxiety and stress. A massage helps with minimizing cortisol production and maintaining it at optimum levels. This ultimately helps you relax and beat the stress.
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