Feeling tired or feeling blue? We invite you to come into Evolutions and have a massage in Santa Barbara for a mental health boost. While it is well known that massage can help many physical ailments (such as reducing pain and stiffness, relaxing muscles, and relieving headaches), it is less widely reported about how massage can benefit a person’s mental health.
The American Massage Therapy Association has published studies about the benefits of using massage to treat mental health problems in different situations. Here are the findings:
- The use of back massage while receiving chemotherapy was shown to significantly reduce anxiety and acute fatigue.
- An 8-week study of HIV patients who were mentally stable but diagnosed with major depressive disorder showed that the severity of depression was significantly reduced at week 4 and continued to be less at weeks 6 and 8.
- Military veterans returning from Afghanistan or Iraq who incorporated massage therapy as part of their reintegration found that worry, anxiety, and depression (along with physical pain) was significantly reduced.
- Nurses who received massage during work hours immediately felt relief from stress, headaches, insomnia, and other pain.
Why is massage so beneficial for a mental health boost? It is known that Swedish massage causes the body to release oxytocin. This hormone plays a role in many positive emotional aspects such as maternal instincts, love and bonding, friendship development, reduction of anxiety, and more. The mood-elevating serotonin is also released during the massage.
Many consider massage a “luxury” treatment but research is revealing that it is a valuable tool for healing both the body and mind. If you’re looking to boost your mental state, boost your wellness, boost you health, and feel good – book a massage in Santa Barbara today. Contact Evolutions Medical & Day Spa at 805-695-2189 to make an appointment.