Massage For Stress Reduction
Stress results in tense neck and shoulder muscles, leading to stiffness, headaches and more stress. Massage helps to relax the mind, body and spirit, providing time and space for self, and a feeling of peace, calm and well-being. It allows the nervous system to normalize itself, and may reduce many stress-related conditions, such as palpitations and raised blood pressure.
Prolonged periods of stress can subconsciously affect many systems of the body. Stress has been shown to aggravate, or even cause, such conditions as heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, memory loss and decreased immune dysfunction. Massage therapy is one of the best antidotes for stress. Massage boosts the body’s immune system, which can become compromised from extended periods of stress. Tension can build up in the muscles, causing a decrease in circulation and nutrient delivery to tissues.
With a therapeutic massage, stress can be significantly reduced. This, in turn, will increase energy and improve life outlook. When sustained stress is experienced daily, the brain responds in a manner known as “fight or flight”. This signals the sympathetic nervous system, which is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain. Muscles tighten in our neck, shoulders and back, blood vessels constrict, eyes dilate, large amounts of energy are expended as the adrenal glands excrete hormones.
Massage breaks this tension by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system (the body’s way of conserving and restoring energy). Stretching and kneading releases tight muscles and natural endorphins. This results in decreased pain, decreased heart rate and a sense of calm. Massage, when combined with traditional medical treatments, can reduce stress and promote healing in people with certain health conditions.
Massage and bodywork techniques are therapeutic in addressing chronic muscle and soft tissue strain patterns created by stress and aligns the muscles and soft tissues of the body by using a combination of specialized and advanced massage techniques. Some techniques may include: Functional muscle assessment (visual, kinesthetic, palpation), myofascial release, neuromuscular, deep tissue massage techniques, structural balancing (positioning and mobilizing), and external hot/cold applications. For more information contact Dr. Richard Browne at (305) 595-9500.
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August 2nd, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Dr Browne, Thank you for a very informative site. I have been practicing Massage Therapy for 3 years now and have had many successes. I have worked with Remedial therapists also, and the results are both immediate and powerful. I love promoting the Massage & Well Being Industry as everybody can benefit.
November 19th, 2007 at 8:46 pm
I have just discovered this amazing site!! I have learned so much!
I do have a question… I have been practicing massage therapy for 2 years with amazing results. I have been trying to begin a therapeutic massage department at our local hospital. ( not just for the patients but for the over-worked,over-stressed surgeons and staff as well)
Any suggestions on how to get the ball rolling a little faster?
Thanks in advance!
December 22nd, 2007 at 10:58 am
Yhanks you828cdeb9b204460d7c5197e57809f46c
January 31st, 2008 at 2:27 am
Very informative and I agree with everything. I found out I had high blood pressure 3 years ago. I really believe massages play a huge role in relieving stress. Sometimes it’s hard to find a good massage but I’ve had a lot of luck with sites like MassageAnywhere.com where there are descriptive profiles. Now my blood pressure is at near-normal levels.
March 3rd, 2008 at 7:24 am
Stress is a HUGE problem, not only for the immediate things we notice but for the ones that we do not. Like Diverticulitis, Stress is one of the major problems for the D. And a good massage if it stops stress is going to help more than just the old back ache.