Massage Therapy
Prenatal Massage Benefits
Massage therapy during pregnancy is a wonderful investment to include with your prenatal care. Swedish techniques are traditionally used to calm the central nervous system. Studies show that prenatal massage can:
Reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels
Decrease hip and pelvic pains
Relieve natural but unfortunate muscle aches and joint pains as your body makes room for the baby
Stimulate the lymphatic system to help with swelling
Improve digestion
Reduce sciatic nerve pain
Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller
Improve overall mood
Prenatal Massage also allows the mom-to-be time to relax, clear her mind, and stay in tune with her body. Regular massage therapy during pregnancy has been shown to improve labor outcomes and newborn health.
Massage Benefits
Anyone can benefit from massage therapy. Here are a couple of other health benefits for all members of the family:
Enhance sleep quality
Decrease anxiety
Ease medication dependence
Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body's natural defense system
Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles
Lessen depression and anxiety
Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks
Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation
Reduce spasms and cramping
Relieve migraine pain