Toxins Buildup
Stress, environmental contaminants, a sedentary lifestyle, and processed foods are among the reasons for buildup of bodily toxins—poisons that are generally produced by bacteria and are harmful to good health. The body has defenses against toxins, including the kidneys and the liver, as well as the whole circulatory and lymphatic system, but the combination of challenges listed above can overwhelm our defenses. The buildup of toxins can lead to discomforts such as fever, rashes, and joint pain; to diseases from the common cold to cancer and multiple sclerosis; and to psychological problems such as anxiety and depression.
When we think of massage treatment, we may think its primary effect is relaxation. It’s true that is frequently our experience of massage. But the effects go far beyond that. As it stimulates the circulatory and lymphatic systems, massage treatment helps the body flush toxins and trigger a natural healing process.
A Natural Self-Healing
Natural because massage increases circulation and assists a body’s self-cleaning process. The lymphatic system naturally relies on muscle contraction, gravity, and breathing to function properly. During the massage, the compression of body tissues helps squeeze blood and lymph through vessels to facilitate chemical detoxification. Long, sweeping strokes, methodical and rhythmic activate superficial veins and push fluids toward the heart.