“The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will instruct his patients in care of the human frame, in diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease.”
- Thomas Edison
In our constantly-connected world, true wellness often gets relegated to the back burner, viewed as a fleeting escape or a one-time indulgence reserved for special occasions. Prioritizing your well-being isn't just about feeling good in the moment, it is about building a robust shield for lifelong health. One culprit of chronic illness and disease is stress. According to Jonathan Otto's e-book, Scientific Insights into Natural Therapies for Reversing Chronic and Autoimmune Diseases,
"Chronic stress can set the stage for conditions such as anxiety, depression, digestive issues, headaches, muscle pains, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep problems, weight gain, and memory and concentration impairment. Moreover, chronic stress can pave the way for unhealthy coping mechanisms such as overeating or smoking, contributing to the development of diseases. Job strain, characterised by high demands and low decision-making latitude, has been associated with an increased risk of coronary disease. Other forms of chronic stress, like depression and low levels of social support, have also been linked to elevated cardiovascular risk. Beyond these effects, chronic stress takes a toll on the immune system, making it more challenging for the body to recover from illnesses. In essence, chronic stress is not merely a mental challenge but a comprehensive threat to our holistic health."
And let's face it, stress is inevitable for modern humans. However, we have not balanced the growing stress of modern day with tools to manage that stress. What are some tools to manage stress?
A 2020 study by the University of Konstanz found that just ten minutes of massage resulted in significant reductions in stress, not just through self-reported feelings of relaxation, but also through measurable physiological markers. And that is one study. There are a multitude of studies proving that massage therapy is a powerful tool for managing stress and preventing the development of chronic illness and disease caused by stress overload.
Regular massage sessions go beyond simply reducing stress and anxiety, however; they can demonstrably improve your body's circulation, increase flexibility, and enhance your sleep quality. Here's a breakdown of some key advantages supported by scientific research:
Reduced Muscle Tension and Pain: Massage therapy is widely recognised for its effectiveness in alleviating muscle tension and pain. A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Therapy & Rehabilitation found that massage therapy combined with conventional care led to significantly reduced pain and improved function in patients with chronic neck pain compared to conventional care alone [1].
Improved Circulation: Massage techniques can stimulate blood flow throughout the body. A 2009 study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated that massage therapy increased circulation and improved endothelial function, which is the ability of blood vessels to relax and expand [2]. Enhanced circulation can benefit various aspects of health, including nutrient delivery to cells and waste removal.
Stress Reduction and Relaxation: The calming and de-stressing effects of massage are well-documented. A 2010 review published in the Cochrane Collaboration database examined 17 studies and concluded that massage therapy can significantly reduce anxiety in adults [3]. This reduction in stress can positively impact sleep quality, mood, and overall well-being.
Improved Sleep Quality: The relaxation response triggered by massage can contribute to better sleep. A 2016 study in the International Journal of Nursing Studies found that massage therapy improved sleep quality in adults with primary insomnia [4]. Better sleep is crucial for physical and mental health recovery.
Increased Tissue Elasticity: Muscles and connective tissues like fascia have an inherent elasticity that allows them to stretch and contract. Massage techniques like kneading and stroking help increase this elasticity by warming up the tissues and improving blood flow. This makes the tissues more pliable and less resistant to stretching, allowing for a greater range of motion in your joints.
Are you ready to unlock the power of preventative wellness and experience these benefits firsthand? We have a massage for everyone, whether you like Thai or Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, Aromatherapy, Hot Stone or Myofascial you can find a wide range of Bodywork sessions at Vitruvian Wellness. Check out our offerings here.
[1] Fritz, S. L., Filippini, T., Stetkiewicz, S. M., Deyo, R. A., & Bombardier, C. (2018). Massage therapy for chronic neck pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. International Journal of Therapy & Rehabilitation, 25(11), 1222-1240.
[2] Field, T., Hernandez-Royo, C., & Khalil, Z. (2009). Effects of massage therapy on inflammation and endothelial function in humans. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 15(7), 727-733.
[3] Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., Diego, M., et al. (2010). Massage therapy for anxiety disorders. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD006511. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006511.pub2.
[4] Bang, H. J., Cho, C. H., & Kim, T. J. (2016). The effect of aromatherapy massage on sleep quality in adults with primary insomnia: A randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 61, 114-121.