People from all around the world have enjoyed the benefits of massage therapy for thousands of years. In fact, did you know that archeologists have found paintings of people getting massages in Ancient Egyptian tombs? Every year, during the last week of October, it’s National Massage Therapy Week. This week-long celebration helps raise awareness about the benefits of massage therapy while also showing appreciation to massage therapists everywhere.
To help celebrate all that is encompassed with National Massage Therapy Week, here at Otium Wellness, we’ve created this article to help raise awareness about the benefits of massage therapy.
What is National Massage Therapy Awareness Week?
National Massage Therapy Week was first created by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) back in 1997 to help educate the public about the benefits of massage therapy. The AMTA is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to advancing the art, science, and practice of massage therapy.
Although National Massage Therapy Week was first created in America, it is now recognized in Canada through various institutions like the Registered Massage Therapists’ Association of Ontario. This week highlights the importance of massage as it plays a significant role in Canadian healthcare and improving one’s wellness.
Why Is Massage Therapy Beneficial
One of the main reasons that National Massage Therapy Week is so important is to tackle the misconception that a massage is only a form of pampering. Many people associate getting a massage with a way of expressing self-care, which it truly is, but it also has scientifically proven and researched benefits as well.
Massage therapy has been around for centuries and has evolved with time. There are many different kinds of massages, which all have their own unique benefits. Some of the most common types of massage therapy include:
- Relaxation Massages
- Deep Tissue Massages
- Cupping Massages
- Hot Stone Massage
- Pregnancy Massage
If you’re trying to decide which massage therapy would be best for you, it comes down to what concerns you want to address and if you have any overall wellness goals you want to achieve.
The different types of massage all have different intents and purposes. Some techniques are used to help stretch and manipulate the muscle, while others are meant to soothe and relax certain areas. One of the best ways to find which massage therapy would best suit you is by speaking with a registered massage therapist.
What Are Some of the Benefits of Massage Therapy?
Aside from helping people relax and feel less stressed, massage therapy has many additional benefits. Some benefits of massage therapy include the following.
Relief From Migraines and Headaches
If you’re someone who has trouble with migraines and headaches, massage therapy has been shown to help reduce the frequency and intensity. The techniques used in massage address the trigger points for headaches and migraines in various parts of the body, like the neck, shoulders, and back.
Many of the triggers for migraines and headaches commonly involve physical and mental stress. Massage can help decrease your heart rate, anxiety, and cortisol levels. In addition, massage also helps induce longer periods of deep sleep by reducing levels of inflammatory agents that can trigger migraines and tension headaches.
Increased Immune Function
Massage is known for promoting increased circulation and lymphatic flow. This helps your body circulate healthy nutrients throughout and filter out metabolic waste. By stimulating the lymphatic system, massage increases the level of lymphocytes, which are responsible for helping the immune system fight off colds, viruses, and even diseases.
Injury Improvement
Massage therapy can significantly aid in injury improvement by enhancing blood circulation, reducing muscle tension, and promoting tissue healing. It helps alleviate pain, release endorphins for natural pain relief, and improve range of motion. Additionally, the relaxation induced by massage can aid in stress reduction, which can further accelerate the healing process.
Sleep Improvement
Massage therapy can be a holistic remedy for sleep improvement. By easing tension and relaxing muscles, it triggers the release of serotonin and melatonin, promoting better sleep quality.
Massage produces a calming and relaxing effect. When you get a massage, it helps release endorphins that reduce your heart rate, breathing, muscle tension, and circulation. When all these components come together, it reduces stress and anxiety, which can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy a deeper, more restorative slumber.
Celebrate National Massage Therapy Week By Prioritizing Your Wellness With Otium Wellness
National Massage Therapy Week serves as a reminder of the invaluable role that massage therapy plays in enhancing our well-being, reducing stress, and promoting overall health. When it comes to your wellness, it’s important to always put it first.
Here at Otium Wellness, we want to help you feel the best you can in all facets of your life. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing massage to melt away the stresses of everyday life or want to finally address some lingering issues, our registered massage therapists are ready to help. Contact us today to book an appointment or to learn more about our massage services.
Blog posts from Otium Wellness are for general information only. The content should not be considered medical advice.
