Improve your quality of life with massage

Massage has been shown to improve the quality of life and help with many of the conditions that older adults face.  Whether it is a slower recovery after working out, sleep disorder, chronic pain, depression, and arthritis it is worth considering adding massage therapy into your wellness regimen especially if you are an older adult.

Over the years we have witnessed much anecdotal evidence that Body First clients have had an overall improvement in their quality of life.  We knew that therapeutic massage could improve the overall quality of life and well-being.  There is a growing body of evidence coming from interesting and promising research. We are excited that massage continues is being researched more thoroughly.

Research shows that massage therapy can help to improve emotional well-being and help overcome many physical limitations. (1). In addition, massage shows to be great for the heart.  During massage therapy sessions, clients experience an improved relaxation response resulting in a lowered heart rate, lowered blood pressure, and decreased reported anxiety (2, 3). Studies also suggested improved wellness for individuals suffering from dementia (4).

References

(1)  Munk, N., and F. Zanjani. 2011. “Relationship between massage therapy usage and health outcomes in older adults.” J Bodyw Mov Ther 15(2)177-85.

(2)  Nelson, R. and C. Coyle. 2010. “Effects of a Bedtime Massage on Relaxation in Nursing Home Residents with Sleep Disorders.” Activities, Adaptation & Aging 34(3): 216-231.