If you’ve never had a massage before, you’re not only missing out on a relaxing experience but a chance to improve your body and your mind. We’re not talking about a quick back rub from that special someone, but a 60 to 90-minute head-to-toe massage by a registered massage therapist.

There are many benefits to receiving a massage, and by the time you’re done reading this, you’ll be ready to search for a “massage near me” and book your next (or first) massage.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Stress unchecked can damage both your mental and physical state. It can cause depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, poor sleep habits, and leave you feeling completely wrung out.

Your parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS) handles and minimizes stress. Your PSNS decreases your heart rate and blood pressure. When this happens, your body is relieved of the stress-induced fight-or-flight instinct.

Massage therapy of any kind or pressure has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety by activating your PSNS. This way your body is managing and reducing stress at full capacity.

Relieves Muscle Tension

One of massage therapy’s main purposes is the tension release of muscles. Any registered massage therapist has a comprehensive knowledge of all the muscles in the human body. They know their function and how to best treat muscles in need of therapy.

Massage therapy loosens muscles through lengthening, deep tissue work, and kneading. You might even feel your spine pop a few times after a massage as newly-loosened muscles let your spinal column re-align.

The best massage for muscle tension is either deep tissue or shiatsu. You may feel sore the next day if you don’t drink plenty of water after your massage. They’ll take getting used to, but if you deal with muscle tension, there’s no better choice.

Improves Circulation

For most massage types, better circulation is simply a product of gentle to deep pressure applied to the muscles. If you want a relaxing massage that specializes in improving circulation, go with a Swedish.

Improves Lymph Drainage

With better circulation comes improved lymph drainage. Your lymphatic system closely follows your circulatory system and helps prevent fluid from building up in one area. 

If you suffer from fluid retention (lymphedema) and want a massage to focus on these benefits specifically, then choose a lymphatic drainage massage.

Relieves Joint and Muscle Pain

If you live a physically demanding lifestyle, you need a massage. From hard labor to repetitive movement (like typing), you’re putting constant strain on the same muscles all the time. Massage helps loosen those muscles, and in turn, the joints with which they work.

Better Sleep

With better circulation, stress relief, and happy muscles, it’s no surprise that all these lead to better sleep. Your body can finally relax since you’re not dealing with tight shoulders or anxiety.

You might even fall asleep during the massage, but that’s not anything to feel embarrassed about (it happens all the time).

Find Yourself a Good Registered Massage Therapist

Choosing a therapist who is not registered could be potentially dangerous as they have not been trained in the correct methods. For this reason, it’s important to find a registered massage therapist that can best work with you to help alleviate the stress or tension in your body. Any registered massage therapist will be happy to explain the credentials and certifications they have received.

For more ideas on how to improve your health and lifestyle, check out our other articles today.