Why does our body need a massage? 5 reasons to let yourself relax

There are many types of massage: relaxing, lymphatic drainage, structural, mechanical and manual, sports and therapeutic. Regardless of which type you choose, this procedure has a beneficial effect on the general condition of the body. Even 10-15 minutes on the massage table will lift your mood and relieve pain. If you’re still in doubt, we’ve put together five reasons why massage is worth adding to your routine.

Helps you recover from workouts

Researchers from McMaster University in Canada have found that after a massage, there is a decrease in inflammation and an increase in mitochondria in tissues. These are the “power stations” in tissues: the more of them, the more endurance you have.

The second effect of massage – the removal of inflammation – was perceived by researchers ambiguously. The fact is that such a reaction in the places of rupture – a natural phenomenon. And massage may be depriving the body of the opportunity to recover on its own.

Nevertheless, it is recommended to massage after a workout, regardless of whether you are a professional athlete or only occasionally visit the gym. Scientists note that ten minutes of the procedure is enough to achieve the necessary effect.

Massage, like any procedure, has contraindications. Consult your doctor beforehand.

Relieves pain

The American College of Physicians and the American Association for the Study of Pain have included massage in their recommendations for the treatment of low back pain. Studies have shown that a ten-week course has a better effect than medication and exercise. The cumulative effect of the treatment lasts up to six months. It has also been proven that not only structural but also relaxing massage is equally effective.

Scientists from the Institute of Touch at the University of Miami have proven that regular treatments help fight migraines and headaches, reducing the frequency of their occurrence.

Stimulates the immune system and improves appearance

Massage not only helps to relieve pain and relax the body, but also improves immune system function. A study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that after 45 minutes of a session, there was an increase in lymphocytes in the body. These are the white blood cells that help defend against disease.

In addition, increased blood circulation activates the elimination of toxins. Lymphatic drainage also has a positive effect on the condition of the skin: its color improves, and it becomes more elastic.

Helps to lose weight

Lymphatic drainage massage helps to lose weight. It can be manual and apparatus. Both types of procedure are performed according to the location of lymphatic vessels. This helps to restart the metabolism and the removal of toxins.

Thus, the massage helps to strengthen the fat-burning effect, helping the body to become tighter. Of course, to lose weight only at the expense of it will not work: the procedure is effective in combination with regular exercise and proper diet.

Fights stress

Massage helps to combat anxiety, improves sleep quality and generally has a favorable effect on the emotional state.

A study by the Institute of Touch has shown that massage reduces the levels of the “stress hormone” – cortisol, while the production of serotonin and dopamine, on the contrary, increases. The procedure can be used as one of the remedies for anxiety, insomnia and even depression.

Despite the many pluses, massage has contraindications. Do not go to the procedure with high temperature, acute inflammatory diseases, varicose veins, a tendency to bleeding, the presence of any tumors.