The mental health benefits of massage

When things get though, and there is sudden change, do you find a way to cope? 

Stress can have a huge impact on both aspects of our wellbeing, and the workplace is, for most people, the most stressful part of our lives (usually). Right now, the anxiety of transitioning back into workplaces are at an all time high as we leave our 'safe' places and change back into a different environment.

The link between physical and mental health is well-known. After all, it is impossible to have one without the other. Finding healthy coping strategies for dealing with stress can help us deal with both physical and mental issues. While most of us know that massage is fantastic for a broad range of physical problems, science also proves that regular massage has impressive effects on our mental health.

Scheduling a regular workplace massage into your workday is one way to help transform your mind and body help increase coping mechanisms. Here’s why...

Improved Sleep
Getting plenty of regular sleep is an essential part of any wellness routine. Without it, we are more susceptible to a range of physical and mental problems. While workplace massage isn’t designed to send you off to dreamland on the spot, the effects of increased blood circulation, lowered heart rate, and relaxed muscles can help you sleep more easily - and for longer - when you do hit the hay.
 
Relieve Symptoms of Depression
Researchers analyzed 17 clinical studies to see if massage therapy can help ease symptoms of depression. They found that every single study had positive results in relieving some of the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Please note: If you do suffer from depression or need help to talk to someone, massage is part of the arsenal in helping you but will never replace professional help and advice
 
Promote Feelings of Wellbeing And Connection
Oxytocin is known as the “love” or “cuddle” hormone. When people connect physically, touch, hug, or bond, oxytocin is released, promoting deep feelings of wellbeing, ease, and comfort.
The expert touch of a massage superhero can get that hormone flowing in a safe and non-offensive way, as we massage over the clothes.
 
Lowered Stress Levels
Cortisol is the “stress” hormone. When this is running wild, we feel exhausted, anxious, and tense. Prolonged stress and elevated cortisol levels can lead to a host of other problems. Massage has been proven to reduce cortisol levels by as much as 30 percent. This then supports your body to battle anxiety naturally.
 
Feel Fresh and Energized
Living with any mental illness is draining and exhausting. It can feel impossible to even drag yourself out of bed in the morning, let alone work with a clear head. Because massage improves circulation, you can feel more energized and focused, dispelling those feelings of fatigue and lethargy (but please, always seek medical advice and talk to someone as well).
 
Naturally Increase Serotonin and Dopamine
Many antidepressants work by boosting low levels of serotonin in the brain (the “happy” neurotransmitter.) Scientists have discovered that massage can boost both serotonin and dopamine by about 30 percent, giving us a natural mood boost.
 
Calm Your Mind
Along with the physical changes that massage can cause, the simple act of taking a break from your workload, even for 15 minutes, can help reset your brain and let you take some deep breaths. The opportunity to step away from your desk can help give you perspective, so you return to your tasks with a fresh mind and body.
 
Mental Health
It is important to take a holistic approach to mental health. There is no one-stop solution or magical pill that can instantly make everything better. However, learning to slow down, take care of ourselves, and find balance is a great beginning.

Regular workplace massage, as part of a well-rounded health and wellness focus, can make a world of difference in many ways, and improve mental health. 

So, if you want to explore the benefits of massage in your workplace, get in touch with us here at Bodyworkz. I am happy to say that our massage superheroes can once again swoop into your workplace to provide nurturing and invigorating massages to your people!

Talk to us today

Note: 
Always seek medical advice, or contact a professional for help first
NZ Helplines for depression, anxiety or any kind of worry or addiction: Free call or txt 4202 anytime
Also visit depression.org.nz for more advice or Mental Health Foundation (of NZ)
​