Insufficient sleep has been linked to obesity, diabetes, depression and cardiovascular disease. Most experts have concluded that getting enough high-quality sleep may be as important to health and well- being as nutrition and exercise. Massage Therapy has been proven to calm the nervous system, and therefore, lessen anxiety, depression, stress, and aches or pains. Many people say they have a more restful and deeper sleep after having a massage. Insomnia is often associated with a lack of serotonin. Studies have shown that massage increases serotonin, which increases the melatonin and helps circadian rhythms to reset. Circadian cycles are the internal periodic rhythms that profoundly affect sleep and wakefulness. This rhythm is what keeps us healed and whole. Regular sessions of massage, either weekly, every 2-weeks or monthly, can greatly improve not only sleep problems but allow a deeper rest time, providing a more positive outlook on life.

Katie White RMT, HTP, CYT, Courtenay Massage Therapy, courtenaymassagetherapy.com