The elderly are most affected by their age than any other group. Massage therapy is proving to be a more valuable tool for influencing and controlling the adverse effects that come with this age.

Health is in a much frailer state in the elderly, and they could use the immune-boosting benefits of massage the most. Massage therapy reduces cortisol, the stress hormone responsible for killing white blood cells, by stimulating the pressure receptors under the skin. This in turn strengthens the weakened immune system.

With a decrease in health comes lack of physical activity. Massage therapy aids in improving the elderly’s range of motion by incorporating passive movements that allow them to get a better stretch. It also improves muscle coordination, balance and agility.

Massage therapy is particularly helpful for people who have or are undergoing treatment for a serious illness, such as cancer, by relieving the fatigue, pain and depression associated with it. It is especially beneficial for those afflicted with degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, by reducing agitation and calming the symptoms.

Massage also presents a need the elderly often lack: touch. Touch creates a nurturing bond that stems from caring, which can ease the effects of touch deprivation, such as irritability and lack of interest. It provides emotional support and companionship, which can have a significant impact on emotional well-being.

Massage is ultimately crucial for the elderly’s wellness, as it is one of the more natural and effective treatments to easing the effects of old age and providing a source of comfort.

One of the great things about massage therapy is that it’s beneficial for people of all ages. From infants to the elderly, massage has been found to enhance general health and welfare. This is especially true in children, where health is crucial to their growth.

In fact, children still experience the same pain and stress that adults do, and massage therapy can play an important role in its relief. It promotes a strong immunity, which reduces the effects of stress on a developing child. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, which brings about sleep and the overall feeling of well-being. 

The nurturing touch if massage therapy also helps set the foundation for a child’s growth into a well-adjusted adult. It stimulates mental and physical development, as well as brain growth. It also improves sound posture by fostering body awareness, which will limit incorrect stress and strain on the developing skeletal and muscular systems.

Studies also show that massage therapy helps children with disorders or diseases. It helps the body and mind of children with ADHD by calming them and by decreasing fidgeting, which results in better behavior and more attentiveness. It also helps children with cystic fibrosis breathe more easily. 

Massage therapy is ultimately beneficial for relaxation, stress reduction and physical development for children, which promotes an easier and healthier transition into young adulthood.

This past summer I returned from a family vacation to York, PA where we stayed in Gifford Pinchot State Park.  The campground has become one of my families favorite escapes.  There's hiking, kayaking, campfires, fireflies, big rocks and lots of nature. 

A couple of the mornings my husband and I went kayaking for a few hours by ourselves.  The lake had a circumference of 8 miles and I think we just about covered every nook and cranny of the lake.  Although, it is hard work, it's also very relaxing.  It works the muscles and clears the mind.  I have to admit I could have used a good massage after I was done!

There's just something special about spending time in the great outdoors.  Life can be so busy and overwhelming that we forget to enjoy it.  I enjoy trying to pay attention to every detail of nature I can find.  I stare at the trees, the rocks, small animals wandering, little bugs swimming on the water, and mysterious objects that I find.  I often think of years gone by and wonder what it was like back then at this park.  I also try and remember my adventures once I am back in the day to day routine, so when everything gets crazy I can remember the little part of the great outdoors I experienced.

Its summer time, let me encourage you to find a way to relax and enjoy a bit of nature!

Angie