A body massage is one of the most indulgent things we can do for our bodies. It makes us feel good during the session with our therapist and afterward. It feels like the weight of our burdens has been lifted and we are soaring. But did you know that a body massage is more than just making us feel good and relaxed? If our budget allows it, getting regular massage therapy (not just when we feel like we are getting sick) is good for both our physical and mental health. Read about the five health benefits of massage that you should be aware of.

What is a Massage?

Massage is the general term for pressing, rubbing, kneading, and manipulating the skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Depending on the person and the therapist’s skills, the massage may range from light stroking to deep pressure. Except for deep tissue or deep pressure, a full-body massage like the Swedish massage in Longwood, FL, an aromatherapy massage, or a head and scalp massage are generally perceived to be very relaxing.

Kinds of Massage

There are many different kinds of massage, but the most popular ones would be the following:

• Swedish Massage: Using light, relaxing strokes, and massage oil, the therapist kneads the muscles to remove tension and pressure points. It is relaxing and calming so generally, it makes you sleep better, too.

• Shiatsu Massage: This kind of massage focuses on pressure points and traditionally does not require massage oil for lubrication. There is no kneading or rubbing and is typically perceived to invigorate.

• Thai Massage. This massage combines different techniques, such as acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga postures. A lot of stretching is involved so it is usually performed on a tatami mat.

• Reflexology. This massage focuses on the pressure points on the hands but mostly on the feet.

• Combination. The most common in day spas in the Philippines is the combination massage. It is preferred by many clients because, as the name suggests, it combines several different techniques. There’s relaxing strokes as well as pressing of the pressure points to relieve stress and tension. If you pick a combination of essential oils with your massage, then it becomes aromatherapy massage.

For athletes, there are also specialized massage therapies for their injuries and to relieve muscle soreness. These are deep-tissue and sports massage.

Health Benefits of Massage

A body massage, whether done in the spa or at home, has its benefits. But it is best to have it done by trained professional therapists because they have been taught about the pressure points that need to be manipulated.

The following are the health benefits of massage that go beyond just making you feel good.

Reduces stress and increases relaxation.

It is without a doubt that this is the most immediate effect that we can get from getting a body massage. If done in a reputable spa with nice amenities, the moment you step inside, you immediately feel calm and relaxed. It would be the perfect setting to get a nice and relaxing body massage.

When the therapist starts kneading, you will feel your body relax and your breathing normalize. Then little by little, your stress will melt away with each stroke. Our body can only take so much negative stress and tension before it gives up. The negative effects will show on our complexion and will also affect our sleep patterns. Many times, too much stress can lead to degenerative lifestyle diseases.

Getting a full-body massage is the best way to unwind and relax because it benefits both the body and the mind.

Reduces body pains, muscle soreness, and tension.

Therapists are trained to identify pressure points and apply the right strokes and pressure. Body pains, cramps, muscle soreness, and tension brought about by stress can be relieved almost right away.

Improves circulation, energy, and mental alertness.

Since tension is released, knotted muscles also get straightened. Your breathing also becomes normalized so this allows for the blood to flow throughout the body and thereby improve circulation. When there is normal blood flow, mental alertness will follow.

When you are calm and blood is flowing freely to the brain, you can think better and assess situations with a clear mind.

Moreover, you get energized the days following a relaxing body massage. You won’t feel sluggish or going down with something.

Lowers heart rate and blood pressure.

You always hear people say that they are getting high blood pressure when they are stressed or angry. Needless to say, a body massage relaxes us and normalizes our breathing. These will result in a lowered heart rate and blood pressure.

Improves and boosts immunity.

Stress alone can get us sick because it lowers our immunity. Combat stress with rest and relaxation techniques to boost immunity. And the most pleasant way to have this is to get a body massage.

Where to Get a Good Body Massage

These health benefits of massage should be enough to convince you to get it regularly. Even getting it just once a month if you are concerned about the family budget will still do a lot of wonders for your physical as well as mental health.

There are many day spas around the Philippines nowadays. They differ in prices as well as services offered. The most expensive ones are in high-end hotels because of the privacy, safety, and exclusivity they offer. These have nicely appointed rooms, decors on point, complete health spa amenities, and even purified air with aromatherapy oils in the diffuser all day long. The rooms are normally far from where the road is, so you cannot hear cars passing by.

In Bacolod City, a nice spa to consider is the Cradle Spa and Wellness Living center. It is a day spa that boasts of well-trained therapists and very nice massage rooms. Check them out at La Luz Building, Lacson Street, Bacolod City. They are open daily from 10am to 9pm. Please call 708-7090 for reservations.