Massage therapy helps patients with cardiac issues address some of the factors that may be contributing to their condition. When a person experiences a painful or stressful event, the brain releases the hormones cortisol and adrenaline. These chemicals prepare the body to fight or run away from dangerous situations. The body responds by tensing muscles, shortening the breath, and increasing the heart rate. Without relief, long-term stress or chronic pain will weaken the heart muscle. Combined with less-than-healthy lifestyle choices, these factors can lead to heart disease. Massage therapy helps to induce physical and mental relaxation, loosen tight muscles and increase blood flow, alleviate chronic pain and reduce anxiety.

Tanya Seguin, SerendipityMassageWpg.ca