The health experts at National University of Health Sciences presents the top three health benefits of adding regular massage therapy to your health and wellness strategy. Massage therapy from a licensed practitioner can:

• Lower stress

The long-term effects of stress can take emotional and physical tolls. Massage therapy may relieve stress and conditions associated with it, such as tension headaches.

Increased Immune Function

Medical research indicates that massage therapy can help boost immune system strength by increasing the activity level of the body’s natural “killer T cells,” which fight off viruses.

• Boost Mental Health and Wellness

Research suggests that symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression (all associated with mental health) may be directly affected by massage therapy.

• Pain Management and Improved Range of Motion

Pain can negatively affect a person’s quality of life and impede recovery from illness or injury. Recent findings highlight the role of massage in pain management.

Your massage therapist should require you to fill out a health history form. They may also ask more in-depth questions to establish which areas you would like focused on, or if there are any specific conditions needing to be addressed. It is important to list all health concerns and medication so that your therapist can adapt your session to your specific needs without causing any harm. It is also important to specify any allergies so that your therapist may adjust the oil or cream being used during your visit.

You may undress to your level of comfort. Many people prefer to keep their underwear on during a massage, while others choose to be nude. Your massage therapist will leave the room so you can undress and lie on the massage table under a top sheet. Regardless if you choose to maintain some clothing or not, your massage therapist will always ensure that you are always properly covered.

Individual preference varies, so for most it depends on your pain, physical needs, emotional needs, and of course, budget. Receiving a massage regularly has the most benefit; this can be as often as weekly or monthly. 

Some people enjoy having a conversation during their massage but keep in mind, the treatment is all about you releasing your tensions and enjoying the experience. Regardless of your choice, be sure to speak up during the massage if there is anything you’d like adjusted (temperature, pressure, music, etc).