23/10/2023
The effect of massage on the body
When performing a massage, the hand exerts a mechanical effect on the body. It stimulates the physiological processes in the skin and the body. It affects the nerve and muscle system, promotes the absorption of substances that affect the skin, and helps the removal of dead cells. It has a skin cleansing and softening effect. Some massage techniques also affect the bones, periosteum, and joints. And every massage affects our soul, our mood and fills us with a feeling of satisfaction.
The physiological effect of massage
During the massage, we transmit mechanical stimuli to the skin through different massage techniques. Our hands come into contact with the surface of the skin and heat is generated, the heat acts through the nervous system and changes the condition of the skin's blood vessels. As a result of the nerve impulses, the blood vessels expand and, under abnormal conditions, even empty capillaries are filled with blood, thus the transport of nutrients and decomposition products will be faster, the metabolism will speed up, and the tissues will be refreshed. Redness appears on the skin and its temperature rises.
Massage has the same effect on lymphatic circulation. The flow of lymph increases, which can be dangerous for the body in some inflammatory processes, which is why, for example, we never massage in case of inflammatory diseases.
The effect of massage on the skin and blood vessels
- the formation of epithelium increases, the resistance of the epithelium improves and it promotes the detachment of dead epithelial cells, both the skin epithelium and deeper tissues are strengthened by it
- the surface of the skin is cleansed and regenerated, as the loosened part of the stratum corneum is removed with the massage
- the physiological processes of the connective tissue are accelerated, the formation of cells and fibers increases, thereby slowing down the aging process of the skin
- makes the functioning of the glands uniform and the secretion produced by them leaves faster
- local stimulation of blood circulation reduces circulatory disorders resulting from passive excess blood and the circulation of venous vessels also improves
- the increase in skin temperature improves the absorption of nutrients
- regular massage changes the distribution of fat tissue
In short, the massage stimulates the skin's metabolism, increases its resistance, influences blood and lymph circulation and thermoregulation. It makes you fitter, more energetic, more balanced and starts you towards a more harmonious way of life.
Written by: Klára Bögi
