Sometimes referred to as Swedish Massage, the primary objective of this massage therapy is to provide relaxation to the entire body. However, the therapy definitely has more to offer.
The benefits of Swedish massage Therapy in Edmonton
While the technique is primarily used to relax the body, the benefits go far beyond relaxation. The method is equally beneficial for improving blood circulation, maintaining oxygen levels, enhancing flexibility, and eliminating muscle toxins.
Some of the most common benefits of Swedish massage therapy include:
Improved Blood Circulation
Massage facilitates blood circulation and consequently assists nutrients and oxygen in reaching the tissues and organs. It also helps flush lactic acid from the muscles and improves the circulation of the lymph fluid, which is responsible for carrying metabolic waste away from the internal organs of the body.
Reduced Stress and Depression
Swedish massage is also used to reduce stress and has demonstrated positive results in managing the symptoms of depression in many patients as well. In addition to helping your body combat the symptoms of chronic fatigue, depression, and stress, regular massage sessions under the supervision of a qualified Edmonton area therapist offer several health benefits such as improved sleep and immunity.
Pain Relief
Relaxation massage therapy can be beneficial for aches and pains, including lower back pain, migraine, and tenderness associated with fibromyalgia and even labour pain. A massage reduces the stress hormone cortisol while increasing the feel-good hormones, dopamine and serotonin. This will slow your heart rate, lower blood pressure and assist in blocking the nervous system’s pain receptors.
Better Nights of Sleep
Lack of restful sleep is a prime opening to invite stress into your life. Massage is known to increase the brain’s delta waves, which are associated with deep sleep. This is one reason why some people find it easy to sleep while receiving a relaxation massage. If you can, head home for a rest after a massage to get the full benefits.
A Stronger Immune System
Relaxation massage can help your immune system as it decreases cortisol, which is responsible for destroying your natural killer cells. In other words, your immune cells get a considerable boost. Massage is excellent for those who have compromised immune systems, such as breast cancer patients. Be sure to always inform your Edmonton based massage therapist of your health status so that massage can be used to enhance your healing.
Increased Brain Activity
Studies show that even a short 30 minute relaxing massage can increase alertness as brain wave activity boosts your attention span.
Improved Mood
Again, less cortisol may also mean less stress and depression. In addition, massage creates a feeling of wellbeing, which is why many hospitals now offer this to patients as they prepare for surgery.
How Swedish Massage Works
The technique uses rhythmic tapping, soft kneading, and long strokes on the top-most layers of muscles. By relieving muscle tension, massage therapy sessions administered by qualified Edmonton therapists can re-energize and relax your body.
When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, massage therapy can be a powerful first step towards physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
Which type of massage is right for you?
Are you confused by all the different styles? Don’t worry about what techniques we’ll use, just book an appointment and our staff will help you with the rest.