In an age of technical and, at times, impersonal medicine, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on the body’s natural ability to heal itself. So what exactly are the benefits to receiving regular massage and/or bodywork treatments?

• Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and  nutrients into tissues and vital organs.

• Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body’s natural defense system, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer.

• Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body’s largest organ – the skin.

• Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles

• Reduces spasms and cramping

• Increases joint flexibility.

• Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level.

• Releases endorphins – the body’s natural painkiller – and is being used in chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain.

• Reduces post-surgery adhesions and edema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred.

• Improves range-of-motion and decreases discomfort for patients with low back pain.

• Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases the need for medication.

• Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion.

• Assists with shorter labor for expectant mothers, as well as less need for medication, less depression and anxiety, and shorter hospital stays.