Boo-hoo... it's getting colder!
Of course, remedial massage in a warm environment is the ultimate treatment for when the chilly winter air has you in need of some serious comforting; it is calming, eases anxieties, can be a drug-free antidote to sleeplessness and just feels generally good.
The immediate advantages of massage seem obvious, but did you know that its therapeutic benefits extend to the immune system as well?
After just a 45 minute massage, participants of a study published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine were found to have an increased number of lymphocytes, the white blood cells integral in defending the body from disease. The promotion of lymphatic circulation means that lymph travels through the body at an advanced rate, eliminating waste and pathogens and strengthening infection-fighting capabilities. Even a single massage can cause enough of a biological change to trigger a boost in your immune system, which we can all benefit from during this flu season.
Additionally, massage has the power to reduce your levels of cortisol - also known as the 'stress hormone'. Cortisol is secreted in higher than normal quantities during the body's 'fight or flight' response to stress, producing some positive, though short-term survival reactions. It becomes problematic, however, when the body's functions don't have a chance to return to normal between periods of high tension, resulting in a state of chronic stress. Low levels of cortisol will ensure your blood pressure is stable and allow immune cells to do their job without interference.
In addition to the effects on the immune system, massage assists in the treatment of various other concerns we face during the winter months. Increased circulation to the muscles, joints and organs will warm the body, and is particularly beneficial in relieving aches and pains, such as arthritis, which can be aggravated by cold weather.
Also, as your circulation improves, your skin is able to absorb the massage oils and lotions more effectively which will leave you feeling hydrated despite the drying weather. Best of all, a regular massage will ward off the winter blues by releasing serotonin and endorphins, enhancing your warmth and overall wellbeing; it will make you happy no matter how miserable the weather.
As you reach for the kale and garlic smoothies and acai bowls this winter, consider reaching for your massage therapist as well; your mind and body will thank you.
Of course, remedial massage in a warm environment is the ultimate treatment for when the chilly winter air has you in need of some serious comforting; it is calming, eases anxieties, can be a drug-free antidote to sleeplessness and just feels generally good.
The immediate advantages of massage seem obvious, but did you know that its therapeutic benefits extend to the immune system as well?
After just a 45 minute massage, participants of a study published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine were found to have an increased number of lymphocytes, the white blood cells integral in defending the body from disease. The promotion of lymphatic circulation means that lymph travels through the body at an advanced rate, eliminating waste and pathogens and strengthening infection-fighting capabilities. Even a single massage can cause enough of a biological change to trigger a boost in your immune system, which we can all benefit from during this flu season.Additionally, massage has the power to reduce your levels of cortisol - also known as the 'stress hormone'. Cortisol is secreted in higher than normal quantities during the body's 'fight or flight' response to stress, producing some positive, though short-term survival reactions. It becomes problematic, however, when the body's functions don't have a chance to return to normal between periods of high tension, resulting in a state of chronic stress. Low levels of cortisol will ensure your blood pressure is stable and allow immune cells to do their job without interference.
In addition to the effects on the immune system, massage assists in the treatment of various other concerns we face during the winter months. Increased circulation to the muscles, joints and organs will warm the body, and is particularly beneficial in relieving aches and pains, such as arthritis, which can be aggravated by cold weather.
Also, as your circulation improves, your skin is able to absorb the massage oils and lotions more effectively which will leave you feeling hydrated despite the drying weather. Best of all, a regular massage will ward off the winter blues by releasing serotonin and endorphins, enhancing your warmth and overall wellbeing; it will make you happy no matter how miserable the weather.
As you reach for the kale and garlic smoothies and acai bowls this winter, consider reaching for your massage therapist as well; your mind and body will thank you.
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