DEPRESSION & MASSAGE
How Massage Can Help Alleviate Symptoms of Depression?
People have believed in the healing power of touch for centuries. In many
traditional societies, the laying on of hands is a vital part of the
healing process. The skin and muscle tissues are densely packed with
nerves which feed directly into the central nervous system (in fact,
they develop from the same set of cells in fetal life). Many
researchers feel that this intimate link between skin and brain gives a
clue about the origin of the "power of touch."
Most people who deal with depression frequently experience physical discomfort–seemingly as
cause and effect. This is vicious cycle that may begin with muscular pains
triggering a depressive episode or, the seemingly more typical case,
with depression exacerbating the physical pain. Christie at Indigo Blue Massage & Wellness can help to break
this "pain/depression" or "depression/pain" chain.
The most obvious way in which massage can aid with symptoms of
depression is that massage feels wonderful, and
touch so often has an uplifting effect on a person's mood. Massage also
relieves pain, both by promoting the production of mood-enhancing
biochemicals and also by improving circulation, loosening muscles and
easing tightness in tense areas. Now consider adding touch therapy from massage with the healing power of Reiki. Christie adds Reiki and Esalen Massage to help heal the whole person. Mind, body and spirit!
Very few people deny that there are important psychological factors at
work in depression, working side-by-side with physiological and
environmental elements to create and maintain the condition of
depression. Since the overwhelming majority of clients find massage to
be a soothing, relaxing and calming experience, regular massage therapy
sessions may assist in slowing or even reversing the progress of
depression. Nearly any kind of massage seems to work equally well,
whether it be Esalen, Swedish, or Deep Tissue massage. The most important thing seems to be that it should "feel good". Christie specializes in one of the most relaxing and stress reducing techniques available, "Esalen Massage". It is important that when treating depression that you seek professional psychological assistance and that all practitioners work together.
