The Benefits of Massage
In an age of technical and, at times, impersonal medicine, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on the body's natural ability to heal itself. So what exactly are the benefits to receiving regular massage and/or bodywork treatments?
- Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs
- Reduces spasms and cramping
- Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles
- Increases joint flexibility
- Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body's natural defense system, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer
- Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body's largest organ - the skin.
- Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level
- Releases endorphins - the body's natural painkiller - and is being used in chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain
- Reduces post-surgery adhesions and edema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred
- Improves range-of-motion and decreases discomfort for patients with low back pain
- Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases the need for medication
- Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion
- Assists with shorter labor for expectant mothers, as well as less need for medication, less depression and anxiety, and shorter hospital stays
The Benefits of Reiki
- Strengthens the Immune System
- Detoxifies the Body
- Reduces Tension and Stress
- Aids Meditation and Positive Thinking
- Reduces Feelings of Tiredness and Fatigue
- Helps Speed Recovery Time after Illness or Surgery
- Helps to Balance Blood Pressure
- Removes Energy Blockages
- Aids in Releasing Blocked and Suppressed Feelings