How aromatherapy massage keeps the body healthy

08 Jan How aromatherapy massage keeps the body healthy

Benefits of Massage

I’ve talked about Aromatherapy oils in a previous post, so let’s have a look at the massage itself and how this benefits the mind and body. This might seem a little heavy going but I get asked some of this quite a lot so here goes….!

There are eleven anatomical “systems” within the human body which function together to keep us healthy, and massage therapy has benefits for every single one of them. No wonder it makes us feel good!

~ Muscular System ~

Muscle fatigue (stiff, aching muscles) is caused by a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the muscle fibres and an accumulation of waste products such as lactic acid. This could be from overdoing the gym, poor posture or stress. Eventually the muscle will go into spasm and cause pain. Massage loosens the muscle fibres and tendons which attach them to the bone and increases the flow of fresh oxygenated blood.  This reduces tension in the muscle and allows waste products to be removed by the lymphatic system, resulting in happy muscles 😊

~  Skeletal System ~

The skeleton supports and protects the body and provides attachments for the muscles, and discomfort in the joints is another common issue. Massage increases the circulation which improves the flow of blood to the bones, joints and connective tissue. This loosens adhesions in the structures around the joints and helps to maintain a full range of movement.

~  Skin (Integumentary System) ~

Massage is great for the skin in so many ways! The increased blood supply delivers essential nutrients and speeds up the removal of waste, and the surface capillaries are dilated which improves the colour and tone of the skin. Cell renewal is increased, plus the friction on the skin through massage aids the removal of dead skin cells from the surface. The sebaceous glands are stimulated, lubricating the skin and keeping it soft and supple, and of course the oils used during the massage also soften the skin. The sweat glands are also stimulated which helps with cleansing and removal of waste.

~ Lymphatic System ~

The lymphatic system drains the tissue fluid from cells, eliminates waste products, and fights infection. The pressure of massage helps this system to work more effectively, removing waste and keeping the body healthy. Massage strokes are always directed towards the lymph nodes in different parts of the body.

~ Cardio-Vascular System ~

Massage speeds up the flow of blood through the veins of the area being treated (they are nearer the surface of the skin than the arteries), which in turn stimulates the flow of fresh, oxygenated blood to the area. We have already discussed how this nourishes muscles, bones and joints, keeping them healthy and pain-free. Relaxing, slow massage also helps to reduce the blood pressure.

~ Respiratory System ~

Massage can help to loosen the mucus produced when the respiratory system is irritated or infected. For those with asthma, there are essential oils which can help with breathing, try eucalyptus, lemon, myrrh or frankincense.

~ Digestive System ~

Massage stimulates the digestive system and the movement of digested food through the colon, and the right movements on the stomach can help with sluggish digestion and constipation. Its easy to do yourself… ask me and I’ll show you!

~ Nervous System ~

A soothing, rhythmic Aromatherapy massage has a sedative effect on the sensory nerve endings, promoting general relaxation of the body. A more brisk massage energises the body and helps to elevate the mood. Although relaxing the muscles and getting rid of the adhesions is a good thing, it should never hurt!

~ Urinary System ~

As we have talked about already, massage increases the circulation which also helps to increase urine output and therefore the elimination of waste products from the body. This is why I tell you to drink water after your treatment, as it helps to flush out the waste and keep you healthy 😊

~ Endocrine/Reproductive system ~

The Endocrine System is all about the regulation of hormones in our bodies, controlled by the pituitary gland, known as the “master gland”. Endorphins, serotonin and dopamine are  released which make us feel happy, contented and relaxed. Massage increases the circulation of hormones in the bloodstream which indirectly aids the immune system, helping the body to rebalance and heal itself.

~  Psychological Effects ~

A good massage makes us feel good, soothes aching muscles and creates feelings of wellbeing and health. That lovely feeling when you stand up and feel loose and relaxed, with less pain and stiffness! Time out for yourself and making time for some self care also helps with stress, anxiety and depression.

My regular clients will tell you that my treatment room is a relaxing and calm space and they value the regular time for themselves. Some like to chat, some like to sleep but everyone leaves feeling better than they did when they walked in. And that’s exactly why I love what I do 😊

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Thanks for reading! 🙂

© Carol Bailey 2023