Research has proved the massage can definitely help improve your overall well-being, there are real physical and psychological benefits. Based on research gathered by the American Massage Therapy Association, massage has been shown to improve sleep in infants, children, adults, and the elderly alike, as well as individuals with psychiatric disorders, fibromyalgia, cancer, heart disease, lower back pain, cerebral palsy, and breast disease.1

A massage is no longer considered pampering, it can actually be a part of your regular wellness routine similar to exercise and getting enough sleep.

1. Reduces Soreness

One Australian study found that a 10-minute muscle massage after a workout could reduce soreness by 30% and reduce inflammation.

2. Reduces Stress Hormone

Another study shows that levels of the stress hormone cortisol dropped 31% following a massage, while levels of feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin increased roughly 30%. How amazing is that?

3. Better Sleep

Along with relaxing you and melting away tension, massage can help boost your levels of melatonin, which directly affects the quality of sleep!

“Massage helps people spend more time in deep sleep, the restorative stage in which the body barely moves, which reduces the neurotransmitter associated with pain.”

– Anne Williams, Director of Education, Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals

Getting a licensed massage therapist to perform your massage is the best way to go but even self-massage, including foam rolling can reduce muscle soreness and improve pain symptoms.

We hope these tips help you understand that massage is not just about pampering yourself, the benefits of massage therapy are endless!

1. AMTA; Massage Therapy Can Help Improve Sleep; October 2012; www.amtamassage.org/approved_position_statements/Massage-Therapy-Can-Help-Improve-Sleep.html