A recent study named Folsom the number one city in California to put down roots. As a town that is seen as ideal for raising a family, it is no wonder there is a large population of expecting mothers. As busy as the lives of these women are, the prospect of getting a massage may seem like a guilty pleasure. However, there are many important health benefits to prenatal massage that can enhance the well being of both mother and child.
How Massage Helps Pregnant Women
Studies have shown that massage during pregnancy reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Hormone levels associated with relaxation and stress are affected significantly by massage therapy, allowing for better mood regulation and improved cardiovascular health.
In one study, a group of pregnant women were given biweekly massages for five weeks, during which time their levels of norepinephrine and cortisol (hormones tied to stress) decreased. Dopamine and serotonin levels increased, indicating that symptoms of depression improved. These hormonal changes led to fewer complications during delivery, as well as fewer postnatal complications for newborns.
Reducing Swelling
Prenatal massage has also proven to alleviate many of the uncomfortable aspects of pregnancy. It can reduce edema, or swelling of the joints, which is a common symptom caused by reduced circulation and heightened blood pressure. The massage stimulates the soft tissues, decreasing the storage of fluids in the joints. It can also treat sciatic nerve pain by relaxing the muscles surrounding the inflamed nerves, allowing them to heal.
Pregnancy massage helps with muscle tone and flexibility, which enhances the body’s ability to carry all that extra weight. It also helps relieve the aches and pains of pregnancy, including muscle spasms, headaches, and leg cramps. Additional perks of prenatal massage include the stimulation of the blood and lymph systems (which increases immunity and aids in eliminating toxins), emotional benefits that come from nurturing physical touch, and improved sleep.
If you are pregnant, come receive a massage in Folsom, CA clinics, like The Healing Station. It will improve your quality of life while pregnant and help ensure a safe delivery and healthy baby. Visit our website today at www.TheHealingStation.net or call us at 916-294-9980. In addition to a pregnancy massage we offer several other types including Swedish, aromatherapy, acupressure, hot stone, cranial-sacral and deep tissue massages and more.
Sources:
Three Sacramento Cities Named Best California Cities to Put Down Roots, Sacramento Press
Massage and Pregnancy: Prenatal Massage, The American Pregnancy Association
Pregnancy Massage: Touch for the Mom-To-Be, Body Sense Magazine
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