The Link Between Massage and Lower Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a common health problem. It happens when the pressure of blood against the walls of your arteries stays too high for a long time. This can lead to serious issues like heart disease and strokes. Many people use medicine to manage blood pressure, but there are natural ways to help, too. One of these is massage therapy. Anchorage massage therapists offer services that can relax the body, reduce stress, and support a healthy heart. Let us explore how this works.
What Happens During High Blood Pressure?
Your blood pressure has two numbers: the top number (systolic) shows the pressure when your heart pumps blood, and the bottom number (diastolic) shows the pressure when your heart rests between beats. If these numbers stay high, your heart works too hard, and your arteries may become damaged. Stress, unhealthy food, and lack of exercise can make this worse.
How Massage Helps Lower Blood Pressure
Massage therapy is more than just relaxing. It has real effects on your body. When you get a massage, your muscles loosen up, and your blood flows better. This can make your heart work less hard. Massage also helps your body release hormones like serotonin, which makes you feel calm and happy. When your body relaxes, your blood pressure often goes down.
Scientists have studied this connection. They found that regular massages can help lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. One study showed that people who received massages had lower stress levels and healthier blood pressure compared to those who did not.
Best Massage Techniques for Blood Pressure
Some massage types are better for helping blood pressure. Swedish massage, for example, uses light strokes to relax the body and improve blood flow. Reflexology focuses on points in your feet and hands that connect to other parts of your body. Craniosacral therapy is another gentle method that helps the nervous system relax. All these techniques work together to reduce tension and make you feel better.
Stress and Its Role in Blood Pressure
Stress is one of the biggest reasons for high blood pressure. When you feel stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that raises your heart rate and tightens your blood vessels. Over time, this can harm your heart. Massage therapy helps by lowering cortisol levels and helping you feel calm. Relaxing your mind is just as important as relaxing your body for keeping blood pressure in check.
How to Include Massage in Your Routine
If you want to try massage therapy, start by finding a trained therapist who knows how to work with people who have high blood pressure. You can start with one session a week and see how you feel. To get the best results, combine massage with other healthy habits. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, exercise regularly, and avoid salty foods. Always talk to your doctor before starting new treatments, especially if you take medication.
Final thoughts
Massage therapy is a simple and natural way to support better health. It can help lower blood pressure, ease stress, and improve your overall well-being.
At Camai Healing, our expert Anchorage massage therapists provide personalized sessions designed to help you feel stronger, more relaxed, and rejuvenated. Book your session today by texting (907) 317-1331 and begin your journey toward a healthier life.