While massage therapy always had the reputation of a decadent luxury, more and more studies show its wide variety of tangible health benefits. These studies continue to prove that there are more physical and emotional benefits to massage therapy than solely relaxation. Below are four ways massage therapy in Denver has proven to be therapeutic and beneficial to your health.

REDUCES OR ELIMINATES PAIN

Massage therapy can relieve any pain or stiffness naturally. Researchers at McMaster University in Canada found that “massage affects the activity of certain genes, directly reducing inflammation in muscles,” providing the same effect you would have by taking over-the-counter pain medications. During a massage, your body releases serotonin, which is the body’s natural production of anti-pain chemicals.

LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE

Massage therapy has become an effective way to naturally stave off high blood pressure. Long-term research has shown significant decreases in blood pressure following consistent massage therapy sessions. Low blood pressure has significant benefits in itself such as reduced anxiety as well as lowering your odds of having a stroke, heart attack or kidney failure.

STRENGTHENS IMMUNE SYSTEM

Massage therapy can give your immune system a boost by reducing your levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. Cortisol increases blood pressure and destroys your natural killer cells (the cells that fight off viruses and tumors). Lower levels of cortisol results in your natural killer cells ability to do their job without interference.

IMPROVES SLEEP

Massages are a great way to promote healthy sleep. Massage therapy has a positive affect on your delta waves, the brain waves connected to deep sleep. Deep sleep is the restorative stage in which the body barely moves while all of your energy goes into recharging your batteries. Therefore, when you lack deep sleep, you’re compromising your immune system and increasing your risk for other health problems.

With all these major health benefits, it’s no wonder massage therapy is being viewed as more than an indulgence. Learn more and schedule a massage therapy appointment in Denver today»