Anxiety can be crippling for so many people. Although psychotherapy and medication are the typical prescribers for dealing with anxiety, massage therapy can also be a beneficial treatment option when done with your doctor's advisement. There are several ways massage therapy can assist with the effects of anxiety. Here are a few examples:
Good Hormone Release
When you get a massage, your body will release a host of hormones from your nervous system. As your body relaxes and you begin to feel calm, your body will release oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine. These are good hormones that help you feel happy and content, which can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety.
Feeling of Human Connection
The human touch can do wonders for your physical health. If your anxiety is partly due to feelings of loss or isolation, a massage from a therapist can help bring you balance and help you feel more centered. The human touch is healing and helps promote endorphin release. The connection from touch can help you feel less isolated.
Decrease in Blood Pressure
Massage therapy helps to relax the mind, body, and soul. During a massage, your blood pressure can decrease, and your heart rate can slow down. Elevated heart rate and blood pressure are common in those who suffer from anxiety. As these rates decrease, you will feel more relaxed long after the massage treatment is over.
Increased Sleep Quality
Those suffering from an anxiety disorder often deal with sleeplessness or difficulty getting quality sleep. Another amazing benefit of massage therapy is the rate of sleep you will have after your treatment. As you reduce your heart rate and stress levels, you will be able to sleep more peacefully and dip into REM sleep, which is the deep sleep one needs to heal and regenerate. Sleep loss adds to stress and feelings of anxiety.
Better Immunity
A massage can help keep your entire body healthy. The act of massage can increase the activity of the white blood cells. White blood cells combat illness and stress. Those with anxiety disorder often have a lot of cortisol, a stress hormone, running rampant throughout their systems. A healthy immune system can help curtail cortisol and promote healing.
Before you embark on massage therapy as a way to deal with your anxiety disorder, be sure to speak to your doctor first. Massage therapy is not a cure for anxiety, but regular treatments are a great way to help manage your symptoms alongside your regular medical treatment. Massage is a natural remedy that can help promote healing without dangerous side effects, so be sure to inquire about this as an option.
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