Massage therapy is often closely associated with pain relief, and many clients seek massage services to deal with occasional or chronic muscle pain or injury. However, the benefits of massage therapy extend well beyond your physical well-being.
For centuries, massage therapy has also been a vital tool in helping individuals find a path to mental and emotional wellness.
Despite being a fundamentally physical practice, massage therapy can reduce or even eliminate stress and anxiety, both of which can make daily life difficult.
Anxiety, particularly over a long period, can decrease your quality of life and lead to painful and chronic physical and mental health problems, like tension, muscle pain, and depression.
Massage therapy can help you control your anxiety while also offering an additional layer of treatment for any physical health problems associated with anxiety.
What is anxiety?
We all worry from time to time, and fears about current or future events can leave even the most steadfast mind reeling in the middle of the night.
Often associated with our innate “fight or flight” response, these feelings can be vital to our survival, helping us evaluate circumstances and make decisions that keep ourselves and our loved ones safe and healthy.
Unfortunately, for some people, those fears and worries are constant and intense, and these feelings can cause everyday situations to become unbearable.
Living in a constant state of anxiety can negatively affect your emotional, mental, and physical health. People who suffer from chronic anxiety are at a greater risk for depression, panic attacks, high blood pressure, digestive issues, insomnia or other disruptive sleep patterns, and physical aches and pains.
These health issues can further exacerbate anxiety and directly impact your ability to engage in everyday activities, whether it’s working, parenting, or spending time with friends and family.
What type of massage is best for anxiety
Many types of massage therapy can assist in anxiety management. One reason is the atmosphere most commonly associated with massage therapy.
In general, massage therapists do their best to ensure that the environment cultivates calmness and relaxation, free from the everyday noises and distractions that can quickly induce or exacerbate anxiety.
They allow you to disconnect with the world and reconnect with yourself, to be present in the moment and in that moment reach total relaxation.
Massages also promote healing, improve circulation, improve sleep, and lower blood pressure. Combined, these effects can positively impact your mood and mind, allowing you to let go of some of the stressors that invade your mind throughout the day.
If you’re considering massage therapy for anxiety management, the following massage therapy techniques are worth considering:
1. Swedish Massage
Many first-time clients are most familiar with Swedish massage therapy. This technique employs gentle strokes that are aimed at relaxing muscles and releasing tension in the body. This type of massage is an excellent option if you are new to massage therapy and are looking for a gentle yet effective experience that caters to the mind and body.
2. Deep Tissue Massage
Also referred to as a sports massage, a deep tissue massage is popular for clients who experience muscle pain or chronic tension. During this type of massage, your therapist will apply rub and stroke muscles using various amounts of pressure to provide relief. You may want to consider this type of massage if your anxiety results in muscle pain or tension.
3. CBD Massage
Typically, a CBD massage takes on many characteristics common to a Swedish massage but with CBD oil. CBD is derived from the hemp plant and can enhance relaxation, decrease anxiety, help reduce inflammation, and offer relief from chronic pain. A CBD massage can be a healing experience for many clients and is a good option if you’re looking for a new spin on traditional massage therapy.
4. Lomi Lomi Massage:
Rooted in ancient Hawaiian tradition, the Lomi Lomi massage is as much of a physical experience as it is spiritual. During this type of massage, your therapist will use sound and rhythmic motions to relax the body and mind.
This massage is truly a one-of-a-kind experience and can be a great choice if you are suffering from any of the effects of anxiety, including depression, panic attacks, muscle pain, and general tension. A Lomi Lomi massage is also a wise choice if you want to elevate your experience to nourish the mind and soul.
Anxiety can be difficult to overcome, but massage therapy can help you reclaim your life. If you’re suffering from the emotional, mental, and physical effects of anxiety, contact us today, and we can help you find the best massage service to meet your needs and help you find relief.