Would you be shocked to learn that 30% of Americans struggle with insomnia?
Living with insomnia can be a frustrating (and downright exhausting) experience. Constantly tossing and turning, unable to find restful sleep, can have a detrimental impact on our overall well-being.
However, one natural solution that holds promise in improving sleep quality is massage therapy.
In this post, we’ll explore the unexpected connection between massage and insomnia. We’ll also highlight how massage can help improve sleep quality and alleviate insomnia symptoms.
What Is Insomnia?
Insomnia is more than the occasional poor night of sleep or waking up feeling groggy. In medical terms, it’s the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep consistently over an extended period of time.
As you may personally know, this can lead to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and impaired functioning during the day. A variety of factors can contribute to this frustrating inability to sleep, including stress, anxiety, chronic pain, or an irregular schedule.
How Does Massage Affect Sleep?
Massage therapy offers an all-natural, holistic approach to combating insomnia. It addresses both the physical and mental factors that contribute to sleep disturbances.
For starters, massage induces a state of deep relaxation. This activates the body’s relaxation response and reduces stress hormones such as cortisol. By promoting relaxation, massage alleviates anxiety and tension, allowing the mind to calm down and prepare for restful sleep.
Massage therapy also helps with chronic pain, which is often a leading cause of insomnia. Massage targets tense muscles, releases trigger points, and enhances blood circulation, which helps to reduce pain levels. By addressing underlying physical discomforts, massage can lead to a more comfortable sleep environment.
But here’s where it gets really interesting: Massage therapy has a direct effect on the hormones that help you sleep.
In fact, research shows that massage increases the production of serotonin, the neurotransmitter that regulates mood and sleep. Massage also triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood boosters. These hormonal changes promote a sense of relaxation and aid in achieving deeper, more rejuvenating sleep.
What’s the Best Massage for Insomnia?
The answer varies from person to person, but if you’re seeking a better night’s sleep, one of the following modalities should help.
Swedish Massage
This classic massage style involves long, flowing strokes and soothing kneading motions. Its main goal is to reduce stress and promote muscle relaxation. Swedish massage is particularly effective in enhancing sleep quality because it induces a deep sense of tranquility.
Aromatherapy Massage
Combining the benefits of massage with the use of natural essential oils, aromatherapy massage offers an added dimension of relaxation. Lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang are popular essential oils known for their calming properties, which can lead to a better night’s sleep.
Ready for a Great Night of Sleep?
When it comes to improving sleep quality, adding regular massages into your self-care routine can provide significant benefits.
You can also incorporate massage into your bedtime routine through self-massage techniques with essential oils or by utilizing tools like foam rollers or massage balls. By promoting relaxation, reducing stress, alleviating pain, and enhancing sleep-inducing hormones, massage creates the ideal conditions for restful sleep.
Are you ready to explore different massage techniques to find what works best for your insomnia? Call us today at 970-748-1600 or browse our massage menu to find the perfect massage for you.