Our therapists at Massage.Physio.co.uk use the application of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage to reduce stress. Stress reduction refers to a process involving alterations in hormone release that can leave you feeling refreshed, calm and relaxed. A reduction in stress can be extremely beneficial to a range of individuals especially those who suffer from anxiety, stress or depression.
What is reduced stress?
Reduced stress can be achieved through multiple massage techniques including manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). Stress reduction is achieved through stimulating the release of endorphins while inhibiting the release of stress hormones. Alterations in hormone release are achieved through stimulating the parasympathetic and autonomic nervous systems. The application of MLD massage helps to stimulate feelings of relaxation and lower heart and breathing rate to a similar speed to that while sleeping. Reduced stress can be extremely beneficial to anyone who suffers from high stress or anxiety levels.
What are the physiological effects of reduced stress?
The application of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage can produce a number of physiological effects. The physiological effects that produce the feeling of reduced stress includes;
The physiological effects that produce a reduction in stress includes decreased release of cortisol and increased release of endorphins.
The application of MLD massage can reduce stress by decreasing the release of cortisol. Cortisol is a stress related hormone released as part of the "fight or flight" response. During times of threat the release of cortisol can be beneficial in allowing the individual to feel alert and observant. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of cortisol can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress and depression. The application of MLD massage can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system to inhibit the release of cortisol.
Our therapists use MLD massage to reduce stress by increasing the release of endorphins. Endorphins such as serotonin and dopamine can stimulate and encourage feelings of happiness and calmness. The application of MLD massage can increase the release of endorphins by stimulating the autonomic nervous system.
When can a reduction in stress help?
A reduction in stress levels can be enjoyed by a range of individuals. Those who would benefit highly from a manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage to reduce stress includes;
- Cosmetic surgery
- Pregnancy
- Cancer related lymphedema
A reduction in stress can be beneficial to a range of individuals such as those following cosmetic surgery, during pregnancy or cancer related lymphedema.
The therapists at massage.physio.co.uk use MLD massage to reduce pain in individuals following cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgery involves the reconstruction or realignment of a body area to improve its appearance. Cosmetic surgery can be a stressful process especially if it is your first time. In the days before a cosmetic procedure an individual may experience an increase in cortisol release due to worries about the surgery. Following the surgical procedure the individual may experience further cortisol production through the anxiety of perceived recovery. The application of MLD massage can inhibit the production of cortisol and allow the patient to feel relaxed and calm.
Pregnant women may benefit from a reduction in stress via the application of MLD massage. During pregnancy women experience changes in hormone production which can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. Although not harmful to the baby, an increase in stress and anxiety is not enjoyed by mother. The application of MLD massage can help reduce the feelings of stress while also treating other common symptoms associated with pregnancy such as swollen ankles.
Those with cancer related lymphedema may benefit from a reduction in stress. Being diagnosed and coping with any illness can be a stressful time resulting in an increase in release of cortisol into the bloodstream. Prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol can leave the individual feeling stressed anxious and sometimes depressed. Our therapists use MLD massage to help decrease stress in individuals with long term conditions such as cancer related lymphedema by decreasing the release of cortisol.
Summary
The use of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage can produce many benefits such as reduced stress. A reduction in stress is achieved via stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system to inhibit the release of cortisol. The application of MLD massage also encourages the release of endorphins via stimulating the autonomic nervous system. A reduction in stress can be enjoyed by anybody but can be specifically beneficial to those following cosmetic surgery, during pregnancy or cancer related lymphedema
How can I arrange a manual lymphatic drainage massage?
The easiest way to arrange a manual lymphatic drainage massage at Massage.Physio.co.uk is to email us at office@physio.co.uk or call us on 0800 033 7800.
You can also book an appointment online and save £10
