Massage is a soothing, relaxing therapy that melts away the stresses, reduces anxiety and depression.
Anxiety encompasses several feelings including worry, fear and unease. We all feel anxiety to varying degrees at times in our lives; before a job interview, when a loved one is sick or during transitional moments, such as graduations or breakups.
Gad- Generalised Anxiety Disorder is a mental health condition that affects a large number of people, women twice as often as men throughout the world.
Some of the risk factors include-
- Low economic status
- Being divorced or widowed
- Family history of anxiety disorders
- Exposure to stressful events
Anxiety sufferers are excessively worried about a number of things- money, health, family, work and more. Some of the symptoms include-
- Feeling restless or “on edge”
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Not able to focus
- Sleep problems
- Restlessness
Massage therapy for anxiety
Anxiety is often treated with cognitive behavioral therapy, medication or both of them. But, alternative therapies are increasingly being considered for treating anxiety and massage is proving effective.
A study published in the journal Depression and Anxiety found participants who received regular massages for 12 weeks had a 50 percent reduction in anxiety symptoms.
Here’s how massage therapy can help relieve anxiety-
Promote better sleep
By reducing cortisol and lowering your heart rate, a massage can help people fall asleep easier and deeper. When you have a restful and undisturbed sleep, the neurotransmitters associated with pain are reduced.
Improve immune system
A massage can help you keep healthy by “increasing the activity level of the body’s white blood cells that work to combat viruses.” Those who suffer from anxiety have increased amounts of cortisol which can severely affect the immune system.
Decrease heart rate and blood pressure
Massage therapy helps relax both body and mind. The soothing massage movements help lower blood pressure and heart rate. High blood pressure and heart rate are symptoms of anxiety disorder, reducing them will help you relax and eliminate anxiety.
Release endorphins and hormones
Massage therapy accelerates the release of happy hormones such as dopamine and serotonin. These brain chemicals reduce the symptoms of anxiety, leaving you feeling balanced and focused.
A regular massage is a natural remedy to lower the levels of anxiety and the risks associated. So, integrate a regular massage in your healthcare regime and take one step towards a healthy, stress-free life.
