Remedial Massage, Stress and the Human Body

By Emanuel Banakh - Remedial Massage Therapist

Living life stress-free can seem like a bit of a stretch, with so many of us being constantly bombarded by the stresses of work, family, and modern living. Stress is unavoidable, but how our bodies hold onto that stress is something we can manage.

The Physical Impact of Stress

When we are stressed, our bodies release cortisol and adrenaline. This causes our muscles to tense up, preparing us for a "fight or flight" response. If this stress is chronic, the muscles never fully relax. This constant tension leads to tight shoulders, a stiff neck, tension headaches, and even lower back pain.

How Remedial Massage Helps

• Physical Release: Remedial massage targets these chronically tight muscles, physically breaking down knots and restoring normal tissue elasticity.
• Chemical Shift: Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering cortisol levels and increasing the production of endorphins and serotonin (our body's natural painkillers and mood elevators).
• Improved Sleep: By reducing physical discomfort and calming the mind, massage helps facilitate deeper, more restorative sleep, which is essential for managing stress.