As the weather fluctuates, headaches and physical discomfort tend to occur more frequently. During such times, massaging your neck or shoulders can help alleviate chronic headaches, relax tension, and even prevent hair loss. Let’s delve into the surprising health benefits of massage.

Why Does Massage Feel So Good?

The pleasant sensation you experience during a massage is due to its effects on muscles and nerves. When your muscles are stimulated by touch, they initially contract slightly but gradually relax as the massage continues, leading to that “relieved” feeling.

Scientific studies have proven the effectiveness of massage. For example, a study conducted by researchers at McMaster University in Canada analyzed the impact of massage on muscle pain. In their experiment, 11 adult participants were made to cycle to induce muscle soreness. Then, only one leg of each participant was massaged. Muscle tissue from both legs was analyzed, and it was found that the massaged leg had a 30% increase in genes responsible for mitochondrial activity (which aids cellular respiration) and a 30% decrease in inflammation-inducing genes. This study demonstrated that massage promotes cell regeneration and reduces inflammation. Additionally, research published in the American Journal of Public Health concluded that massage is effective in treating chronic tension headaches.

Health Benefits of Massage

1. Hair Loss Prevention
   Scalp massage is particularly effective in preventing hair loss by promoting the removal of waste products from the scalp and reducing stress on hair roots. It also improves blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles, encouraging hair growth. A small Japanese study revealed that daily scalp massage for 24 weeks resulted in thicker hair. To relieve scalp tension, use your fingertips to massage from your forehead toward the back, from the outer edges inward, and then reverse the direction.
2. Blood Pressure Management
   Massage can help manage hypertension, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It stimulates the release of endorphins, which relax blood vessels and reduce arterial pressure, thereby lowering stress levels and heart rate. A study published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science showed that participants who received scalp massages experienced decreased blood pressure and stress hormone levels.
3. Improved Sleep Quality
   Massage fosters relaxation, which promotes better sleep. By reducing cortisol (a stress hormone) and boosting serotonin and dopamine levels, massage induces a sense of calm and well-being. It also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to physical and mental relaxation, which encourages restful sleep. Moreover, massage alleviates pain, improving the quality of deep sleep. Research from McMaster University highlighted that massage reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines that cause pain, offering an anti-inflammatory effect similar to aspirin or ibuprofen.
4. Boosted Immunity
   Massage is effective in enhancing immunity. Physical stimulation during massage sends signals to the brain’s stress-regulation and memory centers, such as the hippocampus, reducing negative emotions and boosting immune function. According to a study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, white blood cell counts increased in 29 adult participants who received massages. White blood cells play a vital role in defending the body against diseases and strengthening immune function.

Source : Health Chosun (헬스조선) https://health.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2022/03/15/2022031501514.html