Whether you're on your feet all day or shackled to a desk, there's no better way to unwind than a relaxing foot, neck or shoulder rub. Now, scientists have discovered another reason to indulge in this simple pleasure: massage can lessen depression, lower blood pressure and even help to ward off colds. When was the last time you had one?

 

"The main benefits of massage are improved circulation and movement," says Matt Jeffers, therapist at at Melbourne Muscular Therapies.

 

Waste products, such as lactic and carbonic acids, build up in muscle through the course of everyday activities and "increasing blood flow increases the circulation of lymph throughout the body, which in turns cleans out these waste products," says Jeffers.

 

After an intense workout, massages have been found to reduce inflammation, producing a similar effect to painkillers. And that's not all. Even a quickie at the shopping centre or 15-minute chair massage is enough to slow down a racing heart rate, lower blood pressure, and cause the stress hormone cortisol to drop.

One study in the US found that a 45-minute Swedish massage lead to a spike in bacteria-fighting white blood cells, leading to an improved immune system overall.  "Stress can cause an increase in tension throughout the body, which can lead to anxiety and unclear thoughts," says Jeffers. "Massage helps to release stress and improve balance in the body/mind environment, and as a result, allows a more balanced perspective in stressful situations." He adds that a light massage can also benefit the respiratory system, decreasing substances that trigger allergies and asthma. "There is a flow of fresh oxygen and nutrients flushed through the body, feeding and strengthening the immune system, making it more capable of repairing itself."

 

Do you suffer crippling headaches? 
Massages are great stress relievers and fatigue fighters through their release of mood-boosting endorphins. "The intense, prolonged physical contact of massage boosts levels of serotonin, the body's happy hormone," says Jeffers. "Serotonin is also key to the body producing melatonin, the substance that moderates the sleep stage of our circadian cycle."

When you're sleeping well, your nervous system is less likely to be stressed and irritable, and — as long as there's no underlying condition — those headaches should also disappear.

 

How regularly should I get a massage?
A weekly massage may seem overindulgent, but it may be beneficial to your health. "If you have a specific condition that requires attention, a weekly treatment is definitely the way to go," says Jeffers. "For general health and well-being, a monthly massage is recommended to keep the body and mind in top shape." Just like exercise, massages do more for you the more regularly you keep up with them.

 

Content courtesy of health.ninemsn.com