What really happens to your body during a massage.

Image: iStock

During a massage, physiological and involuntary changes take place in many body systems, including our nervous, gastro-intestinal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems as well as our endocrinological (hormone) and immune systems.

It’s not uncommon for massage to be recommended alongside professional treatments and medication for a wide range of stress-related medical conditions and situations.

5 things every massage therapist wishes guys would stop doing

Studies of the benefits of massage demonstrate that it is an effective treatment for reducing stress, however there are a number of additional physiological changes that occur and contribute to the overall feeling of relaxation we experience during and post-massage. Here’s what they are:

There are many health and wellness benefits associated with massage, and by regularly taking time out to de-stress you can monitor and keep your stress levels in check; for example, multiple studies have shown that regular massages decrease the hormones that cause anxiety and increase the calming, happy hormones and keep cortisol lower.

6 health problems that can be fixed with an orgasm

High levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) for prolonged periods of time can have a worrying effect on your health with a range of side effects including, high blood pressure and lowered immunity. In more serious cases, unchecked stress levels can lead to heart attacks, abdominal fat, strokes, and much more.

In the short term, heightened stress can cause irritability, tiredness, headaches, anxiety, nausea, heart palpitations and insomnia; all of which have the potential to develop in to more serious long term issues which can have harmful effects to your body and general health.

 When was the last time you had a massage?

Dr Lily Tomas ?is the President of the Australasian Medical Association, Integrative Medical Doctor, Representative of Humanity’s Team Aust and is a consultant for endota day spa.