Massage Therapy and Your Mental Health

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) has long ago affirmed that Massage Therapy has many benefits to our mental health.  It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression.  The Massage Therapy for anxiety can be very beneficial for patients dealing with a number of different conditions including cancer, chronic pain, psychiatric conditions, and drug and alcohol withdrawal among others.  It has been proven to increase the neurotransmitters associated with lowering anxiety and it decreases hormones associated with increased anxiety.

Research published in Applied Nursing Research shows that therapy provided during chemotherapy can help alleviate anxiety and acute fatigue.  Chemotherapy treatments are often physically and mentally exhausting for patients, therefore these findings demonstrate the value and significance of therapeutic massage within the cancer treatment regiment.

This therapy can drastically improve our overall well being.  It reduces stress and related symptoms, including headaches, insomnia, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain, and can notably improve our overall health and well being.

Additionally, massage therapy can enhance emotional balance, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. By incorporating regular massage sessions into one’s routine, individuals can experience long-term improvements in mental clarity and emotional stability. These benefits contribute to a holistic approach to mental health care, making massage treatment a valuable addition to traditional treatment methods. The physical touch involved in massage helps to lower cortisol levels and increase serotonin, leading to improved mood and relaxation.

(2014, Winter). Growing body of research shows massage therapy benefits to mental health.

Sports massage. Massage therapist massaging shoulders of a male athlete, working with Trapezius muscle. Toned image. Masseur doing massage on man body in the spa salon. Beauty treatment concept.