The benefits of massage therapy have been documented throughout history dating back to 2000 BCE, in writing. From changing the viscosity of blood and plasma, to releasing chemicals and hormones throughout the body, the physiological and psychological effects are diverse and detailed. Physiologically, massage is effective in managing pain, circulation (blood flow and pressure), lymphatic flow and drainage, the musculoskeletal system (muscles, joints and posture), respiratory function and boosting the immune system. Psychological effects include reducing stress (which is a contributing factor to illness and disease), anxiety and depression and even increasing alertness. From reducing joint and muscle rigidity in people suffering from Parkinson’s disease to alleviating headaches in individuals experiencing temporomandibular joint dysfunction, massage therapy just may be the key to increasing a person’s quality of life. Research has even demonstrated the effectiveness of massage therapy in helping relieve some of the symptoms experienced by cancer patients.

Derrick Hebb
www.liquidmassage.ca