Stress is a normal part of life, but too much stress can be a factor in a wide range of physical and mental health problems. Stress and anxiety can interfere with performance in such diverse activities as taking tests, performing in a competition, public performance or speaking, job interviews, and dealing with health problems.

Anxiety reduction is one of the most well established effects of massage therapy. There is a great deal of research to back up the claim that massage therapy can reduce anxiety, induce relaxation, and relieve stress.

Effects of Stress

Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. It can come from any event or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous. Everyone feels stress at some point in their lives. Many things can trigger stress from athletic competition to life changing events. Frequently occurring situations such as preparing for exams at school or dealing with children or adult parents cause stress over long periods of time.

We usually get over being stressed as the situation resolves itself. Changes in health caused by routine stress may be hardest to notice at first. Because the source of stress tends to be more constant than in cases of acute or traumatic stress, the body gets no clear signal to return to normal functioning. Prolonged stress can cause many health problems such as digestive symptoms, headaches, sleeplessness, depressed mood, anger and irritability. People under chronic stress are prone to more frequent and severe viral infections, such as the flu or common cold.

Massage for Stress Reduction

The use of massage therapy for stress reduction has been researched more than any other outcome. There have been numerous randomized controlled trials that have shown than regular massage therapy can be especially useful for long-term stress conditions.

Relaxation massage allows you to shift your thoughts away from a stressful situation. A warm, quiet room and soothing music help you completely relax while the massage strokes relieve muscle tension.

Consider having a massage to ease stress before a big event such as athletic competition, an exam, public performance, or wedding. Regular massage sessions can help you cope with longer-term events such as dealing with health issues of family or adult parents. The immediate results are likely to be more complete sleep, better appetite, less fatigue, and a better mood.

Massage therapy can help relieve stress. It’s readily available and affordable. Help yourself by taking advantage of what massage therapy has to offer. Contact me today for an appointment.