Did you know? Heart disease is the number 1 cause of death for men and women in the United States, according to the American Heart Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So it’s worth exploring the ways massage can protect and improve the overall health of your cardiovascular system.
A number of long-term studies have shown that a consistent massage program can decrease diastolic and systolic blood pressure. maintaining a healthy blood pressure is important as it can contribute to lowering the odds of one having a heart attack. Additionally, as blood pressure is reduced, heart rate also naturally decreases. This means less pressure on the heart to circulate blood throughout the body correctly. Another benefit of massage for heart health is how our hormones respond. Massaging and relaxing the muscles of the body also stimulates nerve endings, releases endorphins, and decreases the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline.
Massage can positively influence the vascular system as well. It releases contracted muscles and pushes venous blood towards the heart, easing the strain on the heart. As blood circulation is improved, your organs are able to receive oxygenated blood much more easily. In short, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach for allowing the body to naturally heal itself.
Getting a massage on a regular basis from a skilled practitioner, like the therapists here at Practical & Creative, is the key to receiving cardiovascular benefits from massage. Keep in mind that the effects of massage are cumulative. If the goal of massage is health maintenance, a massage at least once a month can help one feel better and reduce tension and stress levels. If you have any questions about how to incorporate massage into your wellness plan, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to speak with you any time.
References:
Massage Therapy & Heart Health: Massage Might Reduce Risks & Benefit Recovery