Benefits of Massage by Madeleine Harsha - Licensed Massage Therapist, #14730 In order to grasp the physical healing benefits of massage one must understand fascia. Fascia is a connective tissue that runs throughout our body that allows force to travel along fascial pathways. These pathways are strong and flexible and create a network of efficient translation of energy through the body. This combined with the strength of the muscles allows the body to move freely. Stress and injury can disrupt the smooth flow of this energy creating a wide spectrum of possible impairments. The most common symptom of this destructive process is loss of energy. This is felt as tension or fatigue. Fascia is a complex web that envelopes and separates each hardworking cell included in the muscular, skeletal, circulatory, and nervous systems. It also supports our organs. Scar tissue or other tense fascia can disrupt the proper functioning of any of these systems. Common symptoms include muscle tension or fatigue, poor posture, nerve impingement, poor circulation and even digestive problems. There are several factors in maintaining healthy, flexible fascia. Receiving regular bodywork is one of many vital methods to reducing fascial tension. The benefits of this fascial unwinding are many in number. They include restorative sleep, improved concentration and increased flexibility. Massage can also aid in improving mood, alleviate pain, enhance your immune system and relieve migraines. After massage you feel rejuvenated and restored. Massage is recommended once or twice monthly depending upon your level of physical activity, for optimum health support. Back to Newsletter