Spring is finally here, but that means dealing with the dreaded allergies for many of us. From sneezing to itchy eyes, allergy symptoms can make us feel downright miserable. Luckily there are more natural ways to ease those pesky symptoms. So, if you need an excuse to treat yourself this season, consider getting a massage. Massage is a natural therapy that can relax the body and allow it to function better, which is why it can help an individual who is suffering from seasonal allergies.
Here are just a few ways that massage can help relieve your allergy symptoms:
Open Sinus Passages
Massage therapists can use facial massage to open up the sinus passages of patients who suffer from allergies. Massaging the head and scalp can free up the flow of mucus and reduce congestion. Also, massaging the clavicle and neck areas can relieve a constricted, tightened throat. One of the most significant benefits of massage for allergies is its ability to open sinus passages.
Reducing Stress
Dealing with allergies can cause a lot of stress, especially if you’re dealing with them daily. Massage therapy can relieve stress. It’s an excellent way to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can ease allergy symptoms like headaches and fatigue. When we’re stressed, our bodies release cortisol, a hormone that increases inflammation in the body. By reducing stress, massage can decrease inflammation in the body, which can alleviate allergy symptoms.
Targets Sinus Trigger Points
Massage therapists can use specific techniques to target trigger points in the sinuses, reducing inflammation and relieving pressure. This can be especially helpful for those dealing with sinus headaches. Sinus headaches are usually caused by inflammation and pressure in the sinuses, and massage can help reduce both factors. Massage therapists can use their fingers to apply pressure to the sinus areas, providing relief and relaxation.
Boosts Immune System
Massage therapy can help boost the immune system, which can help your body better fight off allergens. Massage can help your body stay healthy and resilient by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation. Regular massage therapy can help boost the number of white blood cells in your body, which helps fight off illness and allergies.
Improves Sleep
Allergies can make it challenging to get a good night’s sleep. Massage therapy can improve your quality of sleep. Massage can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can help you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead. A good night’s sleep can also help reduce stress levels, which in turn can alleviate allergy symptoms.
Relax Muscles
Every sneeze or cough is like a mini whiplash, causing tension, even pain, in their neck, shoulders, and upper back. By relieving this muscle tension and helping him/her relax, sinuses will relax and encourage drainage.
Relaxation also helps to slow reactions to allergens. In a study done by the Touch Research Institute showed “Massage, by reducing stress and anxiety in a person, allows the immune system to function normally due to a decrease in blood cortisol (a stress hormone) levels. This can aid in reprogramming the body’s response to allergens and thereby easing related symptoms.”
Lymphatic Drainage
By getting a Lymphatic Drainage massage, you will feel the livening effects of toxins being cleared from your body, the removal of excess fluid, and the reduction of inflammation. Manual Lymph Drainage is a great natural option for those suffering from any form of seasonal allergies, because with the removal of toxins comes the improved functioning of your immune system. This of course helps you to remain healthy in the face of allergy season. Massage therapy can also promote circulation, which helps move lymphatic fluid throughout the body. This can help reduce swelling and inflammation caused by allergies.
In conclusion, booking a massage appointment during allergy season can provide significant relief from the symptoms of allergies. Massage therapy can help reduce stress, open sinus passages, target trigger points, boost the immune system, and improve sleep quality. Don’t let allergies get in the way of enjoying the beautiful spring weather. Consider booking a massage today to start breathing easier and feeling better!