5 reasons to book a healing massage therapy session today

The benefits of massage therapy are both physical and mental. Whether for stress or injury, if you've thought about getting one, here arefive reasons to book a healing massage therapy session today.

Anyone who has ever had massage therapy will tell you it's the real deal and the benefits are very noticeable. If you've never had a massage therapy session, here are five reasons to consider why you should:

1. In 64 per cent of cases, people initially consult a massage therapist to help reduce physical pain. However, after a few sessions, many clients find themselves booking an appointment simply to indulge in a little luxury!
2. Massage therapy provides relaxation and comfort by reducing the level of stress hormones in the body. The soothing effects are apparent by the end of the session.
3. Massage therapy is relaxing, but it also invigorates the mind and body. Scheduling a morning session will stimulate your concentration throughout the day.
4. Massage therapy is proven to be an effective treatment for managing anxiety and depression.
5. Overall, massage therapy improves sleep quality, sharpens the senses and allows you to be more in touch with your inner self.

Psychophysical massage techniques — like massage therapy — focus on restoring balance and connection between the mind, body and spirit. A variety of therapeutic manoeuvres are used to encourage and promote self-awareness. They help you to become more in tune with your body and emotions.

• Therapeutic touching also allows the mind to open up, which is important when developing a trusting relationship with your practitioner. As a result, it’s possible to overcome emotional barriers and psychological blocks with massage therapy.
• In some instances, the after-effects of a massage may leave you feeling stiff from head to toe. This requires a little patience as the positive effects are sometimes only noticeable 48 to 72 hours post-massage, especially true after a therapeutic session.

Massage therapy is also used for preventive healthcare reasons.

• Massages are known to strengthen the immune system and help eliminate toxins in the body. Regular massages can potentially make us more resilient to illness.
• Furthermore, you can expect to experience an overall reduction in blood pressure and stress levels without even lifting a finger.
• Massages have beneficial effects on the lymphatic, respiratory, circulatory and digestive systems.
• Massage therapy increases joint mobility. That’s something your body will thank you for.

People who receive regular massages generally enjoy better skin tone, improved vitality, and benefit from the long-term effects of a more youthful appearance.

• This is due, in part, to stimulating blood circulation. Massage therapy could potentially boost skin oxygenation, enhance your complexion, reduce cellulite and prevent sagging.
• Massage oils provide exceptional skin hydration.

The benefits of massage therapy have been known since ancient times. If you have yet to discover the healing, rejuvenating effects after your first session, you'll likely be coming back for more!