How can a massage help in beating the winter blues? To know the answer to that question, you have to understand how a massage works to the recipient’s benefit. Massage is a somatic therapy where the soft tissues of the body are manipulated in order to reduce tiredness or irritability and improve the circulation.

Therefore, the treatment is often recommended to alleviate symptoms related to depression and stress. The ancient healing art dates back as far as the Ancient Egyptians but was also used to heal ailments that involved the circulation and joints by the Ancient Persians, Hindus, and Chinese too.

Besides Depression, A Massage Can also Alleviate the Symptoms of a Number of Conditions

The therapy has also been proven to be effective in relieving such chronic conditions as:

• High blood pressure;
• Diabetes,
• Arthritis;
• Lower back pain;
• Bursitis; and
• Infertility.

People Suffering from Winter Depression are Good Candidates for Massage Therapy

People suffering from winter depression have reported excellent results from massage therapy as the bodywork is especially designed to relieve the tension and fatigue that causes people to suffer physically and psychologically. A massage increases immune system functioning and also helps people who smoke to quit the habit as well.

A Massage Relaxes the Muscles and Increases One’s Level of Energy

There are over 250 types of somatic therapies or kinds of massage that are used in bodywork. Therefore, therapists can employ a combination of techniques. Basic applications can include compression, rocking, tapping, stroking, and kneading the tissues. Techniques provide revitalization to the energy systems of the body as well as relaxation for tense and tired muscles and joints.

Scented Oils and Lotions Provide the Recipient with an Overall Feeling of Calm

Practitioners use scented lotions and oils to lessen friction to the skin and supply a bit of aromatherapy, all which supplies the recipient with an overall feeling of calm. If you opt for a full-body massage, the bodywork will include the arms, legs, back, feet, head, neck, hands, and shoulders.

A Good Antidote for Treating Seasonal Affective Disorder

For most people experiencing winter blues symptoms, this type of therapy is indeed a good antidote for treating SAD. In addition to eating nutritionally sounds meals or obtaining light therapy or counseling, a massage is an excellent way to enhance the outlook of anyone suffering from the winter blues as well as lessen the incidences of fatigue or anxiety.

The Therapy is Suggested for Pregnant Women who are Suffering from the Winter Blues Too

In addition, massage therapy can also extend to pregnant women too who often cannot take certain antidepressants because of possible adverse side effects. Pregnancy massages can lessen swelling in the legs, feet and arms, relieve muscle and joint pain, and alleviate the sadness and anxiety associated with winter depression.