Massage is perhaps one of the oldest healing traditions. It’s the practice of manipulating a person’s muscles and other soft tissue in order to improve their wellbeing or health. Not just anyone can perform a massage correctly since there are some risks associated with massages. Acquiring proper massage techniques requires training and experience. Take a look at some of the reasons why having a properly trained and experienced massage therapist is important.

They Relieve Stress

An experienced massage therapist has the ability to relieve stress. For centuries, people have used massages as a way to relieve their stress. In fact, recent studies have found that a proper massage significantly reduces physical and psychological stress. This is because massage therapy increases the production of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, while also reducing cortisol levels, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen consumption.

 

They Help Treat a Variety of Disorders 

A trained massage therapist can help their clients manage a variety of disorders. Research shows that massage and myotherapy are effective in managing things like:

  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Soft Tissue injuries
  • Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)
  • Chronic diseases

Only experienced massage therapists know how to switch massage techniques to properly treat a specific illness. No matter your complaint, an experienced massage therapist will know what to do to properly treat your problem.

 

They Help You Sleep More Soundly

If you suffer from insomnia, a trained massage therapist can help. Massage can help you sleep more deeply. When you get a massage, your nervous system slows down due to the pressure, and it results in a deeper sleep. When you’re getting deeper, more restorative sleep, it reduces your levels of substance P, a neurotransmitter for pain, and reduces your overall pain. 

 

They Help You Reduce Anxiety

For those who suffer from anxiety, studies suggest that a massage can help you manage your symptoms. During a massage, your parasympathetic system (the system responsible for calming you down) response is increased, which results in a decrease in anxiety. When you have an experienced massage therapist, they can ensure that the calming effects of the massage are long-lasting.

 

An Experienced Massage Therapist in VA

If you’re looking for a highly-trained and experienced massage therapist in VA, look no further than Spotswood Trail. Kathy Volrath, LMT of Spotswood Trail is a licensed massage therapist who has been helping people treat their symptoms for years. Call us today at (540) 820-3097 to schedule an appointment.