Massage is a helpful method for reducing and preventing stress.
- Production of adrenaline decreases, which slows breathing rate, and heart rate and reduces blood pressure.
- Stimulates nervous system
- Increases nutrients to cells and organs through increased blood circulation
- Improves lymphatic drainage releasing toxins
- Eases muscular and joint tension
- Peristalsis increases which aids digestion
- Leads to relaxation
What Happens in a Stress Massage?
A full consultation is carried out before the treatment. Here the therapist examines the client's posture and takes details of the client's medical history. The desired outcomes of the treatment are discussed and the client has an opportunity to ask questions. The consultation is completely confidential. The massage lasts for one hour and focuses on the back and head. It is a slow and firm deep tissue massage. Neuromuscular therapy is also used which uses deep specific pressure on trigger points to relieve chronic and acute pain.
Effects of Stress on the Systems of the Body
Skeletal system
When a person is under tension muscular tension, such as clenched jaw, hunched shoulders, tends to increase. This leads to postural problems causing strain on joints particularly the spine which can cause back ache and discomfort.
Muscular System
Muscular system Tense muscles can be painful and less effective. The blood circulation in these muscles is poorer which means they become undernourished and less efficient.
Circulatory system
Stress is the major cause of high blood pressure. This can cause angina, heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems. Nervous system The nervous system goes in to fight or flight system. This causes problems in the rest of the body as less immediate functions such as digestion are slowed down. Sleeping is disturbed, memory and concentration are affected and behavior can become moody and irrational.
Digestive system
Stress can cause an increase in the production of gastric juices which; when they have nothing to work on, attack the stomach lining causing ulcers. Peristalsis can be affected causing IBS. Skin A number of skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis and eczema can be linked to stress.
Stress Facts
Mental Health Foundation 'Mental Health in the Workplace' May 2000'
Work related stress is the biggest cause occupational health problem in the UK, after musculo-skeletal disorders such as back pain.' 'Stress related sickness absences cost an estimated £4 billion annually'
Health and Safety Executive 2001
'£3 million working days are lost due to stress related illness.'
