Massage Therapy by Ashleigh Robbinson

What is it, What are its benefits?

Its one of the oldest forms of healing, across the world. So a technique that has stood the test of time must have something to it, right? But what?

Thinking about it, when you bump your head or bang your elbow what the first thing you do? You rub it! Touch is a natural and instinctual comforter and healer! But beyond making bumped heads feel better it has many more benefits to it!

The action of rubbing the skin creates changes in the body and the hormone endorphin is also released. This is the body’s natural pain killer which also creates a sense of well being and a feeling of relaxation.

Aching muscles

The first action of massage on muscles is to encourage them to relax and lengthen; (imagine a wound up elastic band being unravelled), relieving tightness, tension and toxins. The second being, encouraging the flow of fresh blood into the congested area, bringing fresh nutrients and oxygen to the fatigued muscle, and assisting with the removal of the waste product produced by muscle action called lactic acid. Lactic acid is responsible for the tight and heavy feeling of muscles.

Massage will assist the flow of the straw colored fluid that circulates our body known as lymph. The lymphatic system is instrumental in fighting infection and developing immunity. After all the skin is the body’s largest organ!

Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level. Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles. With the added bonus of increasing joint flexibility, by releasing the soft tissue surrounding it.

Sports injury