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8. Health Information
Health Benefits of Massage
Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and
connective tissue to enhance the function and promote relaxation
and well-being. Peer-reviewed medical research has shown that the
benefits of massage include pain relief, reduced anxiety and
depression, and temporarily reduces blood pressure, heart rate, and
state of anxiety.
•
Pain and stress relief:
Relief from pain due to muscle-related
injuries and other causes is cited as a major benefit of massage.
In one study, cancer patients self-reported symptomatic relief of
pain. Acupressure or pressure point massage could be
beneficial in relieving back pain.
•
State of anxiety:
Massage has been shown to reduce a state of
anxiety.
•
Depression:
Massage has been shown to reduce sub-clinical
depression.
•
Blood pressure and heart rate:
Massage has been shown to
reduce blood pressure and heart rate as temporary effects.
•
Sleep better:
Massage has been shown to help improve deep
sleep at night.
Fig.14: Body Acupressure & Reflexology Points
