Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including worry, nervousness, restlessness, and physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and muscle tension. Anxiety can be mild or severe, and it can interfere with daily life.
There are a number of treatments available for anxiety, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Massage and meditation are two complementary therapies that have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a hands-on healing method that involves applying pressure to the muscles and soft tissues of the body. Massage can help to reduce stress, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
There is a growing body of research that suggests that massage therapy can be effective in reducing anxiety. A 2015 study published in the journal "Anxiety, Stress & Coping" found that massage therapy was effective in reducing anxiety in people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The study participants who received massage therapy reported a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms, compared to the control group who did not receive massage therapy.
Meditation
Meditation is a mind-body practice that involves focusing the attention on the present moment. There are many different types of meditation, but all forms of meditation involve training the mind to focus and relax.
Meditation has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety for a number of reasons. Meditation can help to reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase self-awareness. Meditation can also help to change the way people think about and react to anxiety-provoking situations.
A 2013 study published in the journal "The Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology" found that mindfulness meditation was effective in reducing anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder. The study participants who received mindfulness meditation training reported a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms, compared to the control group who did not receive mindfulness meditation training.
Combination of Massage and Meditation
The combination of massage and meditation can be even more effective in reducing anxiety than either therapy alone. A 2017 study published in the journal "Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice" found that the combination of massage and meditation was effective in reducing anxiety in people with GAD. The study participants who received the combination therapy reported a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms, compared to the control group who received either massage therapy or meditation alone.
Massage and meditation are two complementary therapies that have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety. The combination of massage and meditation can be even more effective than either therapy alone. If you are struggling with anxiety, talk to your doctor about whether massage and meditation are right for you.
Book an appt today and ask about adding breathwork or other meditation techniques to your treatment.