Many people undergo massage therapy because it helps them feel better physically, allowing them to relieve tension in the body. However, this treatment can also improve mental health. If you're considering getting a massage for the first time, here's how you can benefit from it.

How Does Massage Therapy Support Mental Health?

1. Enhances Mood

Massage therapy activates your brain to produce more chemicals that help you feel good, such as dopamine and serotonin. Not only do these neurotransmitters boost your mood, but they also help regulate bodily functions. For instance, serotonin aids the immune system, and dopamine assists with muscle movements.

In addition, therapeutic massage reduces the amount of cortisol in the body. This chemical gets released when experiencing stress and anxiety. By diminishing its presence in the body, you feel happier, more relaxed, and mentally calmer after treatment.  

2. Increases Energy Level

Using energy drinks or caffeine-based beverages to feel more awake can lead to a jittery reaction. Luckily, a massage therapy session can increase mental sharpness and focus without this side effect.

A massage releases serotonin and dopamine, so it can help fight insomnia resulting from certain health conditions, including cancer, menopause, and congestive heart failure. When you can fall and stay asleep every night, you have more energy during the day. As a result, you can remain active.

3. Decreases Pain Caused by Diseases

A chronic illness like cancer often goes hand in hand with elevated stress levels, which can worsen the condition. Continuing pain and disease treatment also often leads to depression and anxiety. 

By relaxing muscles, massage therapy helps cancer patients obtain a better psychological state. As a result, it strengthens their will to fight the illness. Significantly decreasing pain also leads to fewer episodes of disturbed sleep and reduces fatigue.

If you want to receive the mental health benefits of massage therapy, visit Aloha Massage Spa in Honolulu, HI. Since 2019, this day spa has provided locals and tourists with physical and psychological relief. Whether you simply want a foot massage or need a full-body treatment, they will ensure you leave feeling better. To learn more about their offerings, visit their website. Call (808) 942-5000 to set up an appointment.