Massage Therapy has many benefits, such as helping us relax or minimise pain. But did you know, regular massage can also help improve your immune system?
Researchers in Cedars-Sinai’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences have reported ‘people who undergo massage experience have measurable changes in their body’s immune and hormone responses’
Participants in the study showed significant changes to their white blood cells following massage. The white blood cells play a large role in defending the body when faced with disease. They also found a decrease in the hormone AVP which is linked to aggressive behaviour. In addition, there was a decrease in the stress hormone, Cortisol, in the massage group.
So massage can improve immunity in two ways. Firstly by increasing the number and activity of the natural killer cells but also by reducing stress, which is known to suppress the immune system.
At Body of Work, we recommend regular massage for overall health and wellness, click the link below to head to our website and book an appointment with one of our five Massage Therapists.
