The Science Behind Massage

The benefits of massage have been touted for thousands of years... (yes, thousands!) Most of our savvy Therapeutic Bodywork clients also "know" only too well how amazing it feels getting a massage, which is perhaps all the evidence we really need :)

However, as a registered nurse, solid research and data is an important element for me, and affords massage the legitimacy it truly deserves. To quote W. Edwards Deming, "In God we trust; all others bring data".

Having said that, it would take too long to take a "deep dive" into all the evidence based research done on this important topic. For that reason, I have made the following "top ten" list:

TOP TEN (RESEARCH BASED) BENEFITS OF MASSAGE
1) It decreases the heart rate, blood pressure and heart rate variations.

2) It increases blood oxidation levels.

3) It improves lymphatic drainage and reduces edema.

4) It reduces headaches, back pain and neck pain.

5) It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, causing relaxation.

6) It reduces scar tissue formation.

7) It decreases stress, anxiety and depression.

8) It improves cognitive and memory functioning.

9) It improves the production and absorption of insulin.

10) It promotes feelings of well-being.

The real list of known benefits is very much longer than this one, but I hope that the "take away" for you, is that massage therapy is a completely legitimate and effective tool in staying well - in body, mind and spirit.

I look forward to seeing you soon on my table where you’ll reap these benefits of a healing massage.

Blessings,
Isobel Lindsay RGN, RN, LMT

**For the entire month of February, Isobel is offering a complimentary Hot Stone Add-On to every 75 or 90 minute session you book. Just mention Hot Stone Add-On at your time of booking - or include it in your booking notes if you schedule online.

Isobel is a native of Dundee in Scotland, initially coming to the USA after training as a Registered General Nurse through the Royal College of Nursing and Midwifery. She then became registered in the USA and has practiced nursing for many years on both sides of the “Pond”. It was her work as a nurse educator at the renowned Canyon Ranch in Lenox, MA which sparked her desire to become a massage therapist, having seen first hand the power of bodywork on her clients. She believes that while the healing power of touch has been well documented over the centuries, that it is sadly lacking in our modern health care system. Isobel is overjoyed to now be able to offer massage as a healing and wellness modality.

Isobel sees clients on Wednesdays, Fridays + Saturdays