Can massage therapy help relieve depression?

Massage therapy has been shown to be an effective complementary treatment for individuals with depression. Depression is a complex condition that affects a person’s mood, thoughts, and behavior, and it can have a negative impact on their overall health and well-being. While massage therapy is not a substitute for traditional medical treatment, it can be a helpful addition to a holistic approach to managing depression. Call the professionals at Urban Day Spa to reserve your next massage therapy session and experience the relief an affordable massage can provide!

Factors that affect depression

Massage therapy has been found to reduce the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, in the body. High levels of cortisol are associated with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. By reducing cortisol levels, many believe massage therapy can help to alleviate symptoms of depression.

Massage therapy can also increase the levels of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that are important in regulating mood and emotions. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression, and increasing the levels of this neurotransmitter through massage therapy can help to alleviate some symptoms of depression.

Massage Therapy Promotes Relaxation

Additionally, massage therapy can provide a sense of relaxation and promote feelings of well-being. Depression can be a debilitating condition that can make it difficult to engage in everyday activities. Massage therapy can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can improve mood and increase feelings of happiness and contentment.

Many Types of Massage Therapy

There are many different types of massage therapy that can be helpful for individuals with depression. Swedish massage is a popular form of massage that involves long strokes, kneading, and circular movements on the topmost layers of muscles. This type of massage is gentle and can help to promote relaxation.

Deep tissue massage is another form of massage therapy that can be helpful for individuals with depression. This type of massage involves slow, deep strokes that target the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. Deep tissue massage can help to relieve tension and promote relaxation.

Other types of massage therapy that can be helpful for individuals with depression include trigger point massage, sports massage, and hot stone massage. It is important to work with a trained and licensed massage therapist to determine the best type of massage therapy for your individual needs.

Overall, massage therapy can be a helpful addition to a holistic approach to managing depression. It is important to continue any traditional medical treatments for depression, but massage therapy can provide an additional tool to alleviate symptoms and promote feelings of well-being.

Reserve your next massage therapy session at Urban Day Spa today!