the benefits of

Massages are commonly known for their relaxing effect and for easing muscle tension, but did you know there are infinitely more benefits to this type of treatment for every system in the body? Read on to gain a whistlestop tour of the main systems of the body and how regular massage therapy can have a profound effect on your overall health. 

Circulatory system

In a nutshell

This system is responsible for the movement of blood around the body. Within this system are the capillaries - microscopic vessels that pass through tissues - facilitating the exchange of oxygen and nutrients for CO2 and waste materials via interstitial fluid. The processes of vasoconstriction (preserving heat in the body) and vasodilation (releasing heat in the body) help to adjust body temperature and alter blood flow. 

How massage helps

Massaging tissues helps improve the circulatory system by increasing blood flow, aiding the transportation of oxygen and nutrients around the body, and contributing to the elimination of waste more effectively

Lymphatic system

In a nutshell 

The lymphatic system is responsible for the drainage of toxins and waste from tissues around the body. It works closely with the circulatory system, however unlike the circulatory system - which has an automatic pumping mechanism (the heart) to move around the body - the lymphatic system has no such built-in function. This system is vital in protecting the body from disease and infection.

How massage helps

Massage speeds up the transportation of lymph around the body, disposing of toxins and bringing cleansed fluid back into the circulatory system. Massage strokes are always directed towards the nearest lymph nodes (deposit centres) which supports the reduction of fluid retention.

Endocrine system

In a nutshell

The endocrine system consists of glands that produce and secrete hormones which handle the slower bodily processes such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause, and regulates other body activities such as metabolism and the immune system. 

How massage helps

Massage can speed up the transportation of hormones to the necessary organs, contributing to an overall more efficient endocrine system. A relaxing massage is also fantastic for tackling stress levels by reducing adrenalin.

Muscular system

In a nutshell

There are almost 700 muscles in the body with 3 key functions: movement, maintaining posture and producing heat. Muscles are made up mostly of water plus protein, mineral salts and fat. Muscles can be voluntary (attached to bones), involuntary (such as those found in the digestive tract and on blood vessel walls) or cardiac (within the heart). Energy is needed to perform a muscle movement, which is provided by carbohydrates. For the muscular system to function effectively, an adequate blood supply with oxygen and nutrients is vital, or else muscle cramps can occur. 

How massage helps

Massage can be excellent for relaxing and stretching out tense muscles, and can stimulate the nerve endings which relieve muscle pain and fatigue. 

Digestive system 

In a nutshell

The digestive system converts food into useable molecules and waste. Beginning with ingestion (food eaten via the mouth), the process then involves secretion (the breakdown of food molecules with the help of enzymes), and the journey through the digestive tract (stomach, small intestine, large intestine). Anything not absorbed by the body is eliminated through defecation.

How massage helps

Massage assists in the delivery of nutrients around the body and directs waste towards the organs of excretion. Lymphatic drainage movements in particular focus on the abdomen area and the strokes work in the direction of digestion, helping with issues such as indigestion and constipation. 

So there is a laundry list of benefits of massage therapy for overall health and wellbeing. Regular massage (every 4-6 weeks) is a fantastic way to give your holistic health a reset. In addition to all of the above, there are even more added benefits when incorporating aromatherapy into a massage - stay tuned for a blog on the benefits of aromatherapy soon!