Stressed? Get a Massage

Health Tips update for Wednesday, August 11:  Many athletes know the importance of massage to help speed up recovery and relieve stiffness and pain--they don’t just rely on muscle rub cream.  Researchers know that massage does so much more than support muscle and joint health. In fact, scientists at the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) at the National Institutes of Health assess the benefits of natural products, as well as mind & body therapies. Based on the research, they found massage “spurs the release of mood-boosting endorphins” in response to hands-on touch. This helps explain how sufferers of chronic mental and emotional stress benefit from massage.  A massage doesn’t have to cost a fortune either. Check your local listings for massage therapy schools or community colleges with massage therapy programs. Some offer free or reduced rates so students can gain “hands-on” experience.

Source: Prevention