By Natasha Middleton
Digestion
Massage Therapy can help to improve digestion by increasing peristalsis (this is the involuntary contraction of the muscles that helps food to move along the intestine).
By increasing peristalsis, massage therapy can help to reduce constipation.
If you suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a regular programme of massage therapy could be particularly effective in helping to reduce pain caused by constipation and cramps.
Massage Therapy also encourages the release of enzymes which help to break down food. This not only makes it easier to digest, but also increases the absorption of nutrients. Improved absorption of nutrients can have a positive effect on all the sytems of the body.
Immunity
The lymph system carries lymph (milky fluid containing waste products which may include bacteria, viruses, and toxins) around the body. The system helps to destroy waste products and remove them from the body via a system of ducts and vessels.
Massage Therapy helps to encourage circulation and drainage in the lymph system, helping it to work more efficiently to remove waste and toxins from the body. This is particularly beneficial if you are trying to fight an infection.
Circulation
The techniques used in Massage Therapy will improve your circulation by speeding up the movement of blood around your veins and arteries. Your Massage Therapist will sometimes apply techniques with more pressure when moving towards the heart. This increased pressure can help the heart to pump blood more efficiently around the body.
Blood carries oxygen and nutrients that are needed throughout your body. Oxygen and nutrients provide you with energy and help to repair and regenerate cells. Your circulatory system also works with your lymphatic system to remove waste from the body.
By improving circulation, Massage Therapy can help your body to work more efficiently.
About The Author: Natasha Middleton ITEC Dip (Holistic Massage), BSC (Psych and TMD).
Natasha Middleton holds a recognised ITEC diploma in Holistic Massage. For details of ITEC, please see the website http://www.itecworld.co.uk
Natasha Middleton is fully insured to administer Holistic massage, as a member of the organisation Embody.
In addition to this, Natasha Middleton has studied psychology at first degree level. This has allowed Natasha to gain an understanding of how your environment and lifestyle can affect both your mind and your body; particularly in relation to stress. This knowledge enables Natasha to tailor your Massage Therapy to your individual needs, delivering an effective method of stress management.
Natasha Middleton is a Massage Therapist based in Rochester, Medway, Kent, UK. For Massage Therapy in Kent, parts of South London and South East England, visit http://www.sheerindulgence.org.uk
