Monday 7 June 2010

Mood and Muscle Reviving Massage

I've upped my cycling big time over the last few weeks to prepare my body for the harsh hills involved in the Coast2coast charity ride I'm taking part in at the end of July.On Sunday after several hours in the saddle and a frantic half hour swim my muscles felt well fatigued and in desperate need of a massage.

So today's blog is about the benefits of massage therapy and why we should all pamper ourselves in this way as often as necessary!

Why is massage beneficial?

Apart from the 'feel good' factor massage therapy produces, which for me is everything - there are many, many reasons why massage is beneficial for health.

Benefits of massage :

It relaxes!

It enhances immunity by stimulating lymph flow (the body's natural defense system).

It helps stretch weak,tight or atrophied muscles.

It helps prepare for and recover from strenuous workouts.

It releases feel good endorphins - amino acids that work as the body's natural painkillers.

It improves the condition of the body's largest organ - the skin, especially if coconut oil is used.

It lessens depression/stress/anxiety.

It pumps oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs improving circulation.

It can help reduce blood pressure.

It reduces spasms and cramping in muscles.

It relaxes and softens tired, injured and overused muscles.

It relieves migraine pain.

It alleviates low back pain and improves range of motion.

And more....................

So all in all massage therapy can be a very powerful ally in your health care regime.

The power of touch should never be underestimated.

Balanced, IE ME!, offers Swedish, and sports massage in the comfort of your own home.

I also have two friends, Dan and Ian, who have healing hands, and their massage is the most divine experience. They're worth their weight in gold!Dan is the gym manager and masseur at the Titanic Spa in Huddersfield, and Ian Mulrooney offers remedial massage through Smartwaytofitness.

Go for it! If you've never experienced massage I can't recommend it highly enough.
RX