The benefits of massage for mental health - how touch can heal

As a qualified massage therapist, it's my go to treatment for trying to gain an equilibrium when life throws too much at me. Massage is one of the oldest and most natural forms of healing. It has been used for centuries to improve mental and physical health. Recent studies have shown that massage can be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of massage for mental health and how touch can help to heal the mind and body.

How can massage help me?

Massage can be a very effective treatment for mental health conditions as it helps to reduce stress and anxiety, improve the mood, and promote relaxation. It's also been shown to increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are two important neurotransmitters linked to happiness and well-being. Massage can also help to reduce the symptoms of PTSD by decreasing levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

What type of massage will suit me best?

There are a number of different types of massage that can be beneficial for mental health. Swedish massage is a very popular type of massage that uses long, smooth strokes to promote relaxation. Deep tissue massage is another popular type that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. This type of massage can be helpful for those who suffer from anxiety and depression as it can help to release tension from the body.

Aromatherapy massage is my favourite type of massage, essential oils are used to promote relaxation and improve the mood. This type of massage can be very beneficial for those who suffer from anxiety and depression as it can help to reduce stress and uplift the spirits. The aromatherapist will create a massage blend that is suitable for you and how you're feeling on the day.

How often should I have a massage?

The frequency of your massages will depend on your individual needs and how you are feeling. If you suffer from anxiety or depression, it is recommended that you have a massage once a week. For those who are looking to reduce stress levels, two to three times a week is ideal. It's important to listen to your body and how it is responding to the massages. If you are feeling more stressed after a massage, then it's possible that you are overdoing it and you should reduce the frequency.

If you are considering getting a massage, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure you book an appointment with a qualified and experienced massage therapist. Second, be sure to communicate your needs and expectations to your therapist so that they can tailor the massage to your needs.

Self-massage tips

You can't always afford or make time for a professional massage, so self-massage is a great way to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

-To start, find a comfortable place to sit or lie down.

-If you're using essential oils, make sure they are blended with a base oil - you can't add essential oils directly to your skin. Add a few drops of the blend to your hands and rub them together before massaging the oil into your skin. Or use a warm massage candle, make sure you blow out the candle first, and then pour the warm wax into the palms of your hand.

-Start with your head and scalp. Use your fingertips to massage your scalp in a circular motion.

-Next, move down to your neck and shoulders. Use your fingers to massage in a circular motion.

-Then, massage your arms and hands.

-Finally, massage your legs and feet.

The important thing is that you relax, and really take time for yourself to enjoy the experience. Massage is a powerful tool that really can help to provide relief from life's ups and downs, so make sure you enjoy a little self care every now and then.

References:

"The Benefits of Massage for Mental Health." Psych Central.com. 20 Feb 2017. Web. 17 Apr 2017.

Gach, John. "Can Massage Help with Depression, Anxiety and PTSD?" Psychology Today. Sussex Publishers, LLC., 09 Dec 2016. Web. 17 Apr 2017.