The benefits of massage

Massages may be viewed as a treat, but studies also indicate that they may have a variety of health benefits. Massage as medicine? That’s one prescription we’d all like.

The benefits of massage go beyond feelings of relaxation and wellness. Massage is good for the body and the mind. Benefits include:

• Improved sleep
• Pain relief
• Mood boost
• Beat stress
• Mental clarity
• Boost the immune system
• Boost the complexion

Improves sleep

Those who’ve dozed off under skilled hands won’t need much convincing of this, but studies show that massage can reduce sleep disturbance, linking it to the effect on the delta waves that are associated with deep sleep. A 1998 study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that patients suffering from migraines reported fewer distress symptoms, less pain, more headache-free days and fewer sleep disturbances after a course of massage therapy.

Sleep massage bar with the relaxing scent of lavender and chamomile essence water will ease you into a state of relaxation. Or try our Deep Sleep massage bar for a lavender, chamomile and magnesium dream team.

Eases pain

The right kind of pressure can help to loosen knots in the muscles and encourage better blood flow. Massage can also improve your flexibility and consequently help to prevent injuries or strains (particularly those caused by repetitive strain).  

A 2011 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine on the effectiveness of both relaxation and structural massage and other care on lower back pain also found that a 10-week massage treatment reduced pain more than medications and exercises - and the effects lasted for up to six months. It also showed that relaxation massage was as effective as structural massage.

Wiccy Magic Muscles is a perfect choice for sore or tired muscles with stimulating cinnamon and aduki beans working out those knots. Or you might prefer CBD infused Joints, perfect to unwind your muscles and your mind.

We also have the perfect pairing. Stimulate and warm up with Before magnesium massage bar and wind down with After magnesium massage bar. 

Boosts mood and beats stress

Better sleep and fewer pounding heads would certainly boost the mood, but there’s good reason for feeling better after as a massage. In 2005, The Touch Research Institute also found it soothes anxiety by reducing the levels of the stress hormone cortisol and boosting the levels of neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. This may mean less stress, anxiety, and depression.

A 2016 study into the effects of Swedish massage (published the Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research) also found that regular treatments reduced some of the symptoms associated with anxiety. Study participants received three 30-minute massage sessions per week for four weeks with researchers concluding, "Massage therapy caused a decrease in systolic [blood pressure], pulse and respiratory rate. It can be concluded that massage therapy was useful for decreasing the vital signs associated with anxiety in healthy women.”

The mood-boosting citrus in Each Peach and Two's a Pair massage bar is sure to add a sherbety spring in your step.

Boosts the immune system

Massage may not just help you relax and cheer up, but it may also help to improve the function of the immune system. That's because stimulation of the skin and muscles can boost the body's production of chemicals that ease pain and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being - all thanks to the power of touch. A study conducted in 2010 and published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concluded that a 45-minute massage has can increase the number of white blood cells that help defend the body from disease. Better blood circulation may also lead to enhanced organ function which makes you feel brighter and happier. So there's something in that old ethos of healthy body, healthy mind.

Boosts the complexion

Better sleep, less stress and a better mood are bound to make you feel better, but a regular rub-down may well result in an increased radiance in your skin as well as mood. Massage increases blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage (taking toxins out and away from cells), which is why regular stimulation may add vitality to your complexion and hair.

Everyone can benefit from a bit of Therapy¿, this massage bar is renowned for giving your skin some much needed TLC.

With science on your side, you can add massage to your everyday routine. Self massage has the same benefits as partnered massage. Simply add it to your self care or bedtime routine and make it a daily ritual. We like to use massage bars which were invented for the Lush Spa, but you can also use your favourite body lotion. 

For the ultimate experience, treat yourself or someone you love to a spa treatment at one of our Lush Spas. Book now via our new booking systems, available exclusively on the Lush IOS app. Or find out how to give the perfect back and shoulder massage or a foot massage from one of our spa therapists.