Massage and soft tissue work has been used for centuries and can be a powerful tool, particularly during periods of intense stress. Adrenaline and cortisol are both stress hormones which are released as a survival reaction to boost heart rate and blood sugar levels. When there is little relief from stress, systems in the body can start to object, giving rise to issues including depression, high blood pressure, headaches, and stomach problems, and muscle tension. High levels of cortisol have been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. While eliminating anxiety and pressure may be unrealistic, massage can, without a doubt help manage stress.
Massage can relieve pain and decrease tension in muscles, allowing you the freedom to adopt a more natural and free posture. Relaxation enables the nervous system to calm, allowing you to breathe more slowly and deeply. When the body is under intense stress, the excess of stress hormones suppresses the immune system leaving the body vulnerable to infection. Clinical studies show that regular massage can increase the immune system’s activity levels and boost lymphocytes.
Two things happen during a massage, stress hormones are decreased, and endorphins, the ‘feel-good’ hormones are increased. The increase in endorphins serotonin and dopamine results in a feeling of calm relaxation that makes chronic as well as acute stress easier to overcome. Stress relief alone can improve your vitality and state of mind. By decreasing cortisol and adrenaline levels, rest and recovery can take place, potentially improving your health profile and disease risk.
Isla is well known as a highly-skilled, hands-on practitioner and she has a secondary qualification in Sports Massage (Level 4). With three decades of experience in her hands, Isla can find and treat the most subtle soft tissue tensions, increasing your overall feeling of wellbeing. She feels passionate about the value of hands-on work as a treatment option.
To find out how soft tissue work can help you, please call us to discuss your needs.