Massage Therapy Has a Lot More Benefits Than Just Relaxation

There used to be a massage kiosk in the shopping center that is close to my home. For $30 you could get a half hour massage. You sat in a massage chair and the attendant would work on your back. How you felt afterward really depended on who gave you the massage. Some were alright while others did a really good job.

Then a friend of mine bought a massage chair and let me use it whenever I came over. It was great. I thought to myself that I would willingly trade my wife in for one of these things. It was one of those expensive ones that gave you a Shiatsu massage all up and down your back and legs at the same time.

But the best massage that I've ever had was from a Japanese lady who used all of the acupressure points on your body. I know this because she had a chart next to the massage table.

She started with a scalp massage. It felt great. Then she massaged your ears and face, your neck and then all the way down your body ending with a foot massage. When you left there you were so relaxed that you felt like a limp noodle.

But massage therapy can bring you more benefits than just relaxation. According to the Healthy Planet Magazine:

"Did you know that scientific studies have shown massage therapy to provide many more health benefits than just relaxation? A new study suggests that massage not only relaxes the body, but also boosts the immune system and prompts beneficial hormone changes."

Even a single massage session can promote profound changes in your body. It's good for chronic back pain that is difficult to treat. This might be because of the acupressure points in your back. It can also stimulate the immune system and help you avoid getting a cold when you are under a lot of stress.

Massage also increases circulation of the blood and stimulates the lymph nodes. It can lessen depression, enhance athletic ability, and help you sleep better.

Studies have shown hat massage also lowers blood pressure and helps loosen stiff joints and increases mobility. And best of all, it feels really good. It's important that you seek out a licensed massage therapist. Remember anybody can call themselves a "massage therapist." If you don't do your research, you may end up with a sex worker instead of a licensed therapist.

A good massage utilizing all the pressure points is the best way I know of that you can spend 50 bucks. And the relaxing benefits can last for a few days, even up to a week.

Source: http://www.thehealthyplanet.com/nov2010_massage.htm