February is American Heart month, so let’s explore the ways in which massage can protect and improve your heart health and help you recover from a stroke.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of men and women in the United States, according to the American Heart Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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 can contribute to lowering the odds of one having a heart attack.
By massaging and relaxing the muscles of the body we reduce stress, stimulate nerve endings, release endorphins and decrease the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline.
Massage therapy releases contracted muscles and pushes venous blood towards the heart, easing the strain on the heart. In this way, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach for allowing the body to naturally heal itself.
Improved Circulation
Moreover, massage can help improve blood circulation throughout the body. The manipulation of soft tissues during a massage session can enhance blood flow to various organs, including the heart.
Improved circulation facilitates the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells and promotes the removal of waste products, contributing to the overall efficiency of the cardiovascular system.
Additionally, the gentle pressure applied during a massage can help dilate blood vessels, reducing resistance to blood flow and potentially lowering blood pressure.
Improving Your Sleep Patterns Helps Your Heart
Massage therapy has also been linked to improvements in sleep quality. Quality sleep is essential for heart health, as it allows the body to repair and regenerate. By promoting relaxation and reducing insomnia symptoms, massage may indirectly contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system.
Furthermore, regular massage sessions have been associated with a reduction in anxiety and depression, which are often linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The mental health benefits of massage can create a positive impact on heart health by addressing these risk factors.
In addition to maintaining your heart health, massage can also help you recover from a stroke!
Getting a massage on a regular basis from a skilled massage therapist like myself, is the key to receiving cardiovascular and heart benefits from massage.
Keep in mind that the effects of massage are cumulative. If the goal of massage is health maintenance, a massage every week or two can help you feel better and reduce tension and stress levels.
