Mental health benefits of remedial massage

07 Dec Mental health benefits of remedial massage

While remedial massage therapy can assist with relieving physical health conditions, it can also help achieve a positive mind and body balance with a number of mental health benefits. Remedial massage therapy can complement traditional psychotherapy and has proven to have a positive effect on an individual’s overall mood and decrease stress. There are many mental health benefits of remedial massage including (but not limited to):

Stress relief

When stressed, the body’s cortisol levels are elevated which can cause stress to culminate into physical symptoms. Stress can emerge as frequent headaches, muscle aches, stomach cramps, fatigue, and high blood pressure. Remedial massage therapy can lower these stress hormone levels and help relax the body and mind.

Activate the sympathetic nervous system

A study carried out by the Psychological Bulletin highlights that reduction of trait anxiety and depression were the largest effects of massage therapy. Remedial massage has shown to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.  Massage induces a relaxing response from the sympathetic nervous system to promote a calmer, focused state of mind.

Improve sleep

Massage therapy encourages the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, a hormone that stabilises wellbeing and happiness. Serotonin works with melatonin, another hormone that plays a role in regulating sleep. Remedial massage and the release of these chemicals in the body can allow for a more relaxing, deeper sleep.

At Western Myotherapy, our qualified therapists use a variety of techniques to assist in relieving stress and promoting relaxation. If you are experiencing chronic stress, severe depression and anxiety, contact your GP to ensure that we can work together to achieve your goals. Contact us at (03) 8001 2041 today!