Using Massage Therapy as a Treatment for Anxiety - Does it Work?
Anxiety is a state of mind where an individual becomes uneasy due to worrying about possible future misfortune. People lead stressful lives with a combination of work, home, and everyday life stress that can be overwhelming at times. The same way that planning a vacation or getting a promotion can bring smiles to your face, issues like financial worries, workplace deadlines, and family challenges can affect your psychological well-being.
A low mood can cause stress and anxiety because of the connection between mind and body. Tension reduces the quality of life, and regular panic attacks can be stressful. Patients search for ways to relieve signs of anxiety to improve their quality of life.
Understanding Anxiety
People might experience mild signs of anxiety when facing challenging situations in life. However, they can also experience severe signs that affect their daily life. Some anxiety symptoms include restlessness, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worry, fear, panic, headaches, digestive issues, or nausea. You can treat anxiety with medication, massage therapy, or both.
It would help if you visited a doctor or therapist when you experience panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, and depression feelings. You also need to talk to a medical professional if you have digestive problems and experience trouble sleeping. Generally, it may be time to visit a therapist when anxiety signs make it difficult for you to work or interfere with your relationships.
Reduce Anxiety with Massage
Massage therapy entails manipulating your muscles by pressing, kneading, patting various muscle groups, or rubbing. Massage therapists massage using massage oils and their hands. Others incorporate tranquil music and aromatherapy oils to create a profoundly relaxing and peaceful experience during a massage therapy session. Massage therapy is effective and safe for treating anxiety and stress.
People struggling with anxiety can get massage therapy at wellness centers, salons, and spas. Since massage therapy is becoming a mainstream treatment option for fear, you can also get a massage at clinics and several hospitals. Some insurance companies are even covering massage therapy sessions for anxiety. Remember to inform your massage therapist on your medical history, including your anxiety signs, such as panic attacks during your first massage therapy session.
Moreover, schedule the sessions with a certified or licensed massage therapist to get treatment from a qualified professional who adheres to the authorities' requirements and standards. Inform your massage therapist of any discomfort areas throughout your body. Additionally, discuss with the practitioner what you want to get out of the therapy, such as stress relief, anxiety, or muscle relief.
Choosing the Best Massage for Anxiety
Choosing the type of massage therapy to relieve anxiety can be tasking. The good thing is that you can consult with a qualified therapist to advise on the perfect treatment based on your anxiety symptoms and medical history. However, you can consider several factors to help decide, such as comfortable with the aroma and how much time you have for the therapy.
You can also consider if you have minor or significant pain and the location of the problem. The area of focus is also an important consideration when getting massage therapy for anxiety. You can also consider the desired result and cause of pain or injury when deciding the perfect massage therapy to treat anxiety.
How Often You Should Get a Massage for Anxiety
Besides helping with anxiety and depression treatment, massages have several other benefits for your body. People often wonder how frequently they should use massage therapy for anxiety. While the answer is not straightforward, you can consider an array of questions to determine the frequency.
For instance, how extreme the anxiety is and your availability to get an anxiety massage can determine the frequency. Also, consider whether you have enough resources for a regular massage, the preferred type of massage therapy, and the availability of a massage clinic or spa for anxiety near your location. It is advisable to get a massage for anxiety after a week or two, depending on the situation.
Reasons Why Massage Therapy Helps Manage Anxiety
- You Feel Connected
Physical touch strengthens marriages. Similarly, it connects strangers. When getting a massage, you click and feel secure with your massage therapist. It aids in releasing endorphins, which is beneficial for people dealing with isolating thoughts.
- Improve Immune System
Massage helps manage anxiety by increasing the activity level of white blood cells that function to fight viruses. Massage helps in reducing the high amounts of cortisol produced when a person is anxious. Increased cortisol damaged the immune system.
- Release Hormones and Endorphins
Your body releases several helpful neurohormones when receiving a massage. Some of the hormones your body releases during a massage therapy session include oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. These hormones reduce signs of anxiety, leaving you feeling centered and balanced.
- Reduced Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
Massage aids in relaxing the mind and body. Consequently, heart rate and blood pressure slow down during the sessions. Remember that blood pressure and heart rate are classic signs of anxiety. Therefore, reducing heart rate and blood pressure helps in keeping you relaxed.
Pressure Points for Anxiety Relief
- Hall of Impression Point
The point is located between your eyebrows. Your massage therapist applies pressure at the impression point to aid in both stress and anxiety. You sit comfortably and close your eyes as the therapist touches the spot while taking slow and deep breaths.
2. Heavenly Gate Point
The spot is situated in the ear at the upper shell. It is the tip of the triangle-like hollow. Therapists stimulate the heavenly gate point to aid in relieving stress, insomnia, and anxiety. Massage therapy for anxiety entails applying firm and gentle pressure at the cosmic point in circular motions for a few minutes.
3. Shoulder WellPoint
The pressure point is in the shoulder muscle. It relieves muscle tension, headaches, and stress. However, talk to your massage therapist before the therapy session to avoid using this pressure point if you are pregnant.
4. Great Surge
The point is on foot below the big and second toe intersection. The significant surge lies in the hollow above your bone. That point assists in reducing anxiety. Massage therapy for anxiety entails applying firm and deep pressure to the great surge point.
Conclusion
Massage therapy is perfect for managing anxiety. The best type of massage therapy will assist in preventing or dealing with anxiety attacks. Remember to talk to a therapist when the symptoms prevent you from working or going to school.