Do you feel that you are being self-indulgent? Actually, massage has many health benefits.

Massage therapy is a hands-on manipulation of the bodies' soft tissue. This includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and connective tissue. Massage therapist work to improve the circulation of blood through the body and speed the metabolic waste products form the muscles.

Research has found that almost everyone benefits form the remarkable healing powers of massage. In 1986 a study by the Touch Research Institute reported that premature infants who received massage after birth gained 47% more weight and became more responsive than premature infants who did not receive human touch. In addition they confirmed that children with various medical conditions- including juvenile arthritis, ADD, asthma, cystic fibrosis and diabetes to name a few, received tremendous benefits from a regimen of therapeutic massage.

Adults will find their health is improved both mentally and physically with a regular visit to their massage therapist.

The physical benefits include:

Calming the nervous system

Promoting relaxation

Improves Sleep

Relief of muscle tension

Invigorates and energizes

Better breathing

Strengthens the immune system

Improves blood circulation

Removes wastes and toxins

Speeds recovery from injury

Helps with pain management

Enhanced tissue elasticity and flexibility

Increases range of motion in joints

The mental benefits include:

Improved self-esteem

Sense of well being

Increased feelings of peacefulness and relaxation

Reduction of tension, depression and anxiety

Reduced stress and fatigue

Increased connection between mind and body

So, you see, you are actually doing your body a disservice by NOT scheduling regular massage visits.