Massage also eases muscle pain and tension, improves circulation of the blood and lymph, and lowers heart rate and blood pressure. Ongoing research suggests massage may offer some relief for such conditions as fibromyalgia, headaches and anxiety. For older people, who are more often alone and may receive less touch, and the chronically or terminally ill, who may feel untouchable because of their illness, massage therapy may hold special benefits. The healing effects of touch can encompass both the body and the mind. Just as stress can cause tense muscles, releasing muscle tension through a pampering or invigorating massage can help ease emotional tension.
Massage is contraindicated in certain conditions.
Check with your healthcare provider or a qualified massage therapist. Sparks recommends finding a massage practitioner who is licensed and nationally certified. Usually when people speak of the mind-body connection, they focus on the power of positive thinking to promote healing. All Rights Reserved. Please view our Disclaimer and Privacy Statement .