subject: Having Trouble Sleeping? Massage Could Be The Solution. [print this page] Do you occasionally find yourself tossing and turning, unable to fall asleep or remain asleep for a long period of time?
You are certainly not alone. It is estimated that 30 % of people in the UK have trouble sleeping while 10 % experience chronic insomnia.
However, there is a connection with relaxing massage therapy and sleeping. In fact, many people choose a deep tissue or relaxing massage as an aide to their sleeping problems.
A lack of sleep can be devastating to your every day life. You can become extremely tired, have problems concentrating on daily tasks and become affected by serious health issues because your immune system is not getting the rest it needs. Furthermore, sleeping problems can cause stress on both the body and the mind and often affect ones positive outlook on life.
However, a relaxing massage could be the answer you are looking for! Read on to find out what the connection is between sleep and massage.
Serotonin and Sleep
Serotonin is one of the components of sleep. It is a vital neurotransmitter that is essential to our brain. Numerous studies have shown that there we need serotonin for a healthy sleep. This is because the serotonin is required for the body to interpret melatonin, a hormone released to quiet and reset the brain as it prepares for sleep.
So what does this have to do with deep tissue massage? Everything. A relaxing massage directly influences the bodys production of serotonin. With the extra levels of serotonin, the brain is able to reset itself and prepare for a good nights sleep.
The Nervous System and Massage Therapy
There are two parts to the nervous system: the parasympathetic and the sympathetic. The parasympathetic is in charge of balancing the sympathetic. The sympathetic is activated when you are stressed and thus you feel edgy and unhappy. A deep tissue or relaxing massage activates the parasympathetic part of your nervous system, which balances out this unhappy feeling and replaces it with soothing pleasurable feelings. The parasympathetic allows your body to relax and relieves the stress associated with your sleeping problem.
Brain Waves and Body Relaxation
There are several different types of brain waves flowing through your cranium. However, according to a study done by the Touch Research Institute, it is the delta waves that are increased during a massage. Delta waves are connected to healing, regeneration and restorative deep sleep. A massage, whether a deep tissue massage, a sports massage or a pregnancy massage, is proven to trigger the delta waves sending your body and mind into a state of soothing relaxation. This is comforting to know, especially if you are suffering from sleeping problems.
So before you reach for the sleeping pills, alcohol and any other unhealthy sleeping aide, test out the natural approach and try a relaxing massage. Some people find massages so therapeutic that they fall asleep right on the table. So say goodbye to fatigue and hello to a good nights rest.
