Surprising Benefits Of Massage

Massage can help cut down on migraines. If you're frequently tortured by migraine pain, you might consider a massage. Researchers at the University of Auckland found that those who suffered from debilitating headaches reported fewer migraines and more restful sleep after receiving massage therapy for several weeks. The American Massage Therapy Association has a handy tool to help find an MT near you. Massage can help reduce pain from exercise. Research indicates that massage therapy can reduce inflammation of skeletal muscle damaged through exercise. A study by the Buck Institute for Research on Aging and McMaster University in Ontario, Canada found evidence that massage therapy may provide relief from inflammation (which is often the reason behind post-workout aches and pains), similar to how anti-inflammatory medication helps swelling go down. Massage can make you look younger. Massages stimulate blood flow, which is why regular gentle rubbing and kneading might keep your face looking healthy and radiant. Skin care expert Kimara Ahnert told Women's Health that massage plumps slack skin, encourages lymphatic drainage (moves toxins out of cells so nutrients can travel in), and adds vitality to a dull complexion. Massage can help beat PMS. A massage could banish mood swings, bloating, headaches, weight gain, and other PMS symptoms, according to a study by the Touch Research Institute and University of Miami Medical School. Researchers there found that regular massage sessions lessened symptoms of premenstrual syndrome in women age 19 to 45.