In addition to making you feel generally good, massage has also been shown to be very effective at helping injured muscles recover faster. Scientists studying the benefits of massaging the body after intense exercise or injury have found that applying force to the leg muscles removes inflammatory proteins and improves muscle fiber recovery. This is just one of the many benefits of massage, a complementary therapy that is easy to incorporate into a health program. From naturally improving emotional wellbeing to reducing physical pain to regulating biological variables, massage is a great addition to any fitness plan and can improve overall health in a number of ways.
Relieve pain and improve blood circulation
Massage therapy is now widely accepted as an effective element of pain management, from relieving chronic back pain to treating bothersome sports injuries. Deep tissue massage treats musculoskeletal problems and involves putting pressure on the muscles and their connective tissues. Not only does this help relieve tension, but it can also help relieve pain by breaking up any remaining scar tissue. Massagers that also produce deep vibrations can help relieve pain and further improve blood circulation. By improving blood flow to specific areas of the body, rapid pressure surges that penetrate deep into the body tissues not only provide pain relief, but can also improve flexibility and range of motion.
Muscle regeneration after training
In addition to relieving pain, deep tissue massage can also be used to release tension in the muscles after an intense workout so that the fibers can recover. Lighter massage grips are also effective after physical exercise, as they promote the elimination of lactic acid and other toxins that result from strenuous exercise. Overall, massage can increase performance by improving blood flow and promoting the circulation of oxygen and nutrients in the muscle fibers.
Enriching rest and relaxation phases
It is well known that resting the body, whether during a good night’s sleep or in shorter periods of relaxation, can help it heal both psychologically and physiologically. The effect of relaxation is enhanced by the massage, as it helps to reduce stress by releasing pain-relieving endorphins and releasing the stress hormone cortisol. Within just ten minutes, the massage can stimulate the body’s own stress reduction system, which enables psychological and physiological regeneration to take place. Reducing stress levels through massage also improves sleep, which plays an important role in healing and repairing the body. With a better night’s sleep, the immune system works better and can fight inflammation, infection, and injury more effectively.
While massage is a pleasant way to relax and unwind, it is also a very effective way to stimulate the body’s natural responses to pain, injury, and stress. From improving muscle repair for better physical performance, to reducing discomfort and stress for better sleep, massage can improve many different aspects of a healthy regime.
