Anxiety is characterized by feelings of tension, worry and even physical changes like increased blood pressure. It is an emotion that effects 40 million people in the United States and can range from being a normal, healthy emotion to severe, even debilitating. Studies show that less than 40% of individuals who suffer from this disorder actually receive treatment.
This disorder is typically treated with cognitive behavioral therapy and/or medication, but recent studies have shown alternative therapies to be just as effective for treating anxiety. Along with acupuncture, yoga, aromatherapy and progressive muscle relaxation, massage therapy is considered a complementary and alternative medicine.
Two ways massage can ease the symptoms of anxiety include:
1) Relaxation
Massage therapy involves effleurage, kneading, compression, passive joint movements, or tapotement to different muscles in the body to relieve pain, injury and stiffness. During this practice, massage therapists use their skills with aromatherapy oils and tranquil music to help reduce tension and prompt feelings of calm and relaxation.
2) Lower Cortisol Levels
Massages help the body to relax which assists with managing the stress reaction that tends to be overactive in individuals who suffer from anxiety. In fact, The Mayo Clinic reports that a 60-minute massage can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) by up to 30 percent after only one session. By reducing cortisol and lowering one’s heart rate, massage helps with falling asleep easier and experiencing longer periods of deep sleep. Having an increased amount of cortisol in the body can have a damaging effect on the immune system. Therefore, massages improve one’s health by increasing the activity level of the body’s white blood cells.
Massage therapy cannot cure anxiety disorder, but instead helps to manage the symptoms that anxiety can cause. It is a great, natural remedy to help those who suffer from anxiety symptoms and poses very little risk. If you experience forms of anxiety, give Moonshadow Medical Massage a call at 919-466-9494. We have several different massage techniques to offer and are ready to help you get your health back in gear.