Yes, massage indeed offers a wide range of health benefits. It is not just a method for relaxation, but also a widely recognized form of complementary therapy and health maintenance.
生理健康益处 – Physiological Health Benefits
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- Relieves muscle pain and tension: This is the most well-known function of massage. Through manual pressure, it can effectively relax tight muscles, break down adhesions in soft tissues (knots), and promote blood circulation, thereby alleviating pain caused by fatigue, sports injuries, or poor posture (such as back pain, neck and shoulder pain).
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- Improves blood circulation and lymphatic flow: The physical pressure of massage helps blood flow to the compressed area, bringing more oxygen and nutrients while removing metabolic waste (like lactic acid). This speeds up physical recovery and reduces edema.
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- Boosts immune function: Some studies suggest that regular massage can increase lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) in the body, which is a key component of the immune system, helping the body fight off illnesses
- Improves sleep quality: Massage promotes the release of endorphins—natural “feel-good” hormones that create a sense of pleasure and calm. It also reduces cortisol—a stress hormone. This change in hormones aids deep relaxation and improves sleep, especially beneficial for those with insomnia.
- Lowers blood pressure and heart rate: By inducing a relaxation response, massage can help soothe the nervous system, thereby aiding in lowering blood pressure and stabilizing heart rate to some extent.