About Therapeutic Massage
Therapeutic massage is the ideal form of massage to help you de-stress and relax. It uses different types of mechanical pressure on the muscles to promote well-being by stimulating blood flow to improve circulation. It helps to reduce stress, and in doing so can reduce heart rate and blood pressure. It will leave you feeling completely relaxed and revitalised.
Massage induces what is known as the ‘parasympathetic response’. The parasympathetic system is a branch of the nervous system responsible for the ‘rest-and-digest’ activities that occur when the body is at rest (especially after eating). These include salivation, lacrimation (tears), urination, digestion and defecation. The parasympathetic nervous system is one of three divisions of the autonomic nervous system (automatic responses). It conserves energy as it slows the heart rate, increases intestinal and gland activity, and relaxes sphincter muscles in the gastrointestinal tract. This is why stress and anxiety can have a negative effect on our digestion. Massage also stimulates the release of chemicals known as endorphins that help us feel happy and relaxed. For instance, one of these is dopamine which is known as our ‘reward hormone’ and is also released when we do something good or achieve something.
Some of our patients come in for a regular session with Wendy for some self-care, you can even buy a gift voucher for friends or family if you want to give them a treat!
