You may think massage therapy is a luxury but it could possibly be a necessity in today's stressful world.  It may seem too expensive or time consuming but it would be a good idea to budget a regular massage into your monthly finances as an investment for a healthier you.  There is a laundry list of the benefits associated with a massage besides the fact that it simply feels good.  It is an instant tension and anxiety reliever which helps maintain physical, mental and emotional health. 

A relaxing massage soothes the entire nervous system leading to an enhanced sense of well being and relaxation.   It improves blood circulation by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells.  It also triggers the lymphatic system which boosts our immune system by deferring our body's waste products.   Massages release endorphins which are amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller.  Therefore, it has been shown to prevent and relieve pain as a result of arthritis, while increasing joint flexibility.  If that wasn't enough, it also relieves migraine headaches, cramps and muscle spasms. 

A massage fulfills our emotional need for human contact and nurturing.  Human touch is one of the most basic needs in life.  It is almost the same level as shelter, food and clothing which are all necessities to survive.  Think about how babies develop emotionally and mentally, mostly due to the power of touch.  They need to be held by their mothers and feel cared for or they will not function in society when they get older.

As adults, a massage can improve our self image by allowing someone else to see our flaws and imperfections.  It lets us know that it's OK to receive something and not have to so something in return.  After a therapeutic massage, you should see an improvement in your focus and concentration levels as well as an increase in energy.  To keep your massages from breaking the bank, try to find a massage school, a no frills establishment, or even a massage chair at the local mall.