How Massage Therapy & Mental Health are Linked
By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- Massage therapy can help naturally reduce anxiety, depression, and stress by lowering cortisol levels and increasing mood-boosting serotonin and dopamine.
- Regular massage therapy sessions help manage chronic pain, which can improve overall mental well-being.
- Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system. This promotes relaxation and helps reduce symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
- For individuals facing high stress or health challenges, massage therapy offers mental clarity, improved mood, and pain relief.
The connection between mental and physical health is well-documented, and holistic approaches like massage therapy have proven effective in improving both. By reducing stress, alleviating pain, and fostering relaxation, massage therapy is increasingly recognized as a powerful support for mental wellness.
The Role of Clinical Massage Therapy in Post-Surgical Recovery
By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- Clinical massage therapy can enhance post-surgical recovery by reducing scar tissue, improving circulation, and easing muscle tension.
- Techniques like effleurage and lymphatic drainage can improve circulation, reduce swelling, and accelerate healing after surgery.
- Deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and gentle stretching can alleviate muscle tension and pain, improving comfort and mobility.
- Clinical massage therapy also supports emotional well-being by reducing stress and enhancing mood, contributing to a holistic recovery process.
The Role of Clinical Massage Therapy in Holistic Health Care
By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
Clinical massage therapy is gaining recognition as an essential component of holistic health care, integrating seamlessly with broader health care systems to support overall well-being. As part of an integrative approach, clinical massage therapy not only helps alleviate physical discomfort but also promotes mental and emotional wellness. Let’s explore how clinical massage therapy fits within a holistic health care model, emphasizing the importance of anatomy and pathology knowledge, and the value of collaboration with other health professionals.
The Chicago Marathon 2024: How Sports Massage Therapy Helps Runners
By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
On October 13, 2024, runners from all over tackled the Chicago Marathon, and Soma’s Sports Massage Therapy team was right there to help them perform at their best and recover quickly.
Burnout Prevention: The Benefits of Massage Therapy for Stress
By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- Recent research indicates that massage therapy can significantly reduce stress levels and alleviate symptoms of burnout by promoting relaxation and releasing endorphins.
- Regular massage therapy sessions have been linked to better sleep quality, which is necessary for recovery from burnout and enhances overall mental clarity.
- The physiological effects of massage therapy help lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, leading to a calmer state of mind and decreased anxiety.
- By incorporating massage therapy into self-care routines, individuals can effectively manage burnout symptoms and foster a sense of balance and well-being.
- As burnout becomes increasingly common in high-stress professions, massage therapy emerges as a vital tool for burnout prevention and recovery.
Burnout has become a common issue for professionals across various industries. As we at the Soma Institute continue to explore the many benefits of massage therapy, we’re excited to discuss how this healing practice can play a crucial role in managing stress and preventing burnout.