Recieving regular massage therapy can significantly increase feelings of vitality, decrease signs of aging and give an expanded sense of well-being. Massage increases circulation, which keeps cells hydrated with nutrients, and it stimulates lymph flow, which helps flush toxins out of the body. Regular massage also helps keep joints flexible and the mind relaxed.

Experts estimate that up to 90 percent of disease is stress-related. Regular massage can effectively ease stress, leading to enhanced sleep quality, more energy and decreased anxiety. Massage also releases endorphins, which relieve pain and often bring an energized and positive outlook on life.

Tiffany Field, Ph.D., founder of the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine, says, “We determined that massage therapy lowers cortisol [a stress hormone] by an average of 31 percent. When cortisol levels decline, serotonin, one of the body’s anti-pain mechanisms, increases… boosting your ability to fend off pain.”

Don May, a licensed massage therapist, offers integrative bodywork—a blend of several massage modalities and energy work. Connect with him at 520-730-0656, [email protected] or DonMay.MassageTherapy.com. See ad, page 34.