The benefits of massage are known to anyone who’s ever had a good one. A single session calms your mind, reduces anxiety, and can even contribute to a good night’s sleep. But according to a study done in the US, these benefits don’t end there. The results showed that getting regular massages also helps ward off illness.
The study included 53 healthy adults, aged 18-45. They were split into two groups: the first group received traditional Swedish massage, and the second group received a session of light touch, simulating a massage but without using any actual massage techniques. Everyone doing the Swedish massage was a licensed massage therapist, to ensure consistency across the massages. Each participant had a catheter placed in one arm during the session and for a few hours afterward, and blood was drawn periodically to measure levels of various hormones and immune system markers.
The study’s authors had a theory that massage increases the body’s oxytocin levels, the “love hormone,” which helps regulate hormone levels linked to stress. But they found that their expectations didn’t hold up. Whether people received the light-touch treatment or an actual massage, oxytocin levels were actually higher in those who received the light touch. But unlike the light-touch group, those who received a real massage showed a noticeable drop in stress hormone levels and an increase in various cells produced by the body that boost immune system function.
A single massage can help strengthen your immune system and help you cope better with everyday stress, even if you’re not specifically sick or stressed. The study found that even one massage session triggers biological changes in the body, and these changes can benefit even a perfectly healthy person. That means massage can also be excellently used as a tool for preventing illness.
Regular massage is good for body and mind
Tips for making the most of it:
– Find a massage therapist who’s right for you. Keep in mind that not everyone clicks with everyone else. It’s worth getting a massage when you feel comfortable there and actually enjoy it. Communication and feedback from the client’s side matters too.
– Massage yourself. While this particular study highlighted the benefits of a full-body massage, other studies have found that even a simple 5-minute self-massage of your hand (or foot) can also help lower stress.
– Even light touch can work wonders. There are many simple ways to raise your own oxytocin levels without lying on a massage table. For example, holding hands with your partner, petting a cute animal, or listening to your favorite music.
Get healthier with massage!
