How is massage linked to stress relief?
It’s no secret that a good massage can help you feel relaxed, but why is this the case? Put simply, when your body gets a massage the brain releases endorphins that calm the peripheral nervous system, which in turn will help you de-stress. Massage is even thought to help with depression, reducing anxiety and minimising withdrawal symptoms in ex-smokers. If you’re critical about the healing powers of massage, why not try it for yourself? You’ll be amazed with the results!
4 best types of massage for stress relief
Swedish massage
Easily the most popular type of massage, Swedish massage is best for relieving tension and breaking apart any muscle knots that you may have developed. Using a variety of massage strokes – including percussion, shaking, long strokes, vibration, kneading and friction – Swedish massage is great for enhancing your circulation and lowering your blood pressure.
Head Massage
Anyone who has received a good head massage will know just how relaxing it can be. Rubbing on the thin muscles located on either side of the cranium will definitely help manage your stress levels. A traditional Indian Ayuverdic massage known as champi is a particularly relaxing form of head massage.
Aromatherapy massage
Combining certain essential oils and massage lotions to your massage can have many stress-relieving implications. Your nostrils are attached to an area of the brain that controls your nervous system and hormones. This means inhaling certain molecules can have a direct impact on both the emotional and physiological impacts of stress. If you want the best possible chance of reducing stress levels, use lavender or chamomile oils.
Auricular acupressure
This type of ear massage can encourage your nervous system to release some of your body’s natural stress-relieving hormones. Your ear is also considered a microsystem for your entire body, containing loads of pressure points that – if manipulated correctly – will not only help you feel good, but will help reduce stress.
Have we missed your favourite place to get a stress-relieving massage in Townsville? Let us know where you go in the comments below!
Need more help reducing stress? Check out these related blogs:
- 3 Natural Therapies for Holistic Relaxation
- Discover Tranquility in the Northern Rivers
- 5 Health Benefits of a Hot Stone Massage
