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Fiction: It’s only good for treating sore muscles.

Fact: While massage is a great treatment for sore, aching muscles, it’s also doctor-recommended to relieve stress, insomnia, anxiety, and a slew of other mental and emotional ailments.

“The issues are in the tissues.” This mantra guides the field of therapeutic massage, which delivers a full mind-body treatment. Massage, a form of bodywork, manipulates muscles and other soft tissues to promote healing at all levels of being. Our bodies are not just physical, they’re also energetic and emotional. Manipulation of the body through massage can effect changes on all these levels simultaneously. That’s why after a massage, you may notice that the knot in your shoulder has disappeared, and that your mind is more able to focus. People can also feel more relaxed and positive about life.

Massage has an impact on the body’s muscular, nervous and circulatory systems, so it’s a great way to support the immune system, relieve general muscle tension and pain, and promote healing of certain injuries. It is commonly sought to relieve asthma, headaches, and even alleviate some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Beyond its physical benefits, massage therapy can help to lift the spirits, improve concentration, boost self-image, and of course, establish a sense of wellbeing. It is often recommended as an adjunct therapy in depression, anxiety, panic and sleep disorders, as well as stress relief. Massage, then, can be integral to a client’s holistic healing process.

There are numerous types of massage therapies. The shiatsu, Cayce-Reilly and Swedish massage methods are popular in Canada. Techniques vary widely and differ in their use of pressure, stroking, rhythm, whether they massage deep tissue or whether they incorporate meditation, yoga, and stretching, or use hot stones or essential oils. While massage is a safe and supportive therapy, it is always best to consult with a physician before starting a massage regimen. Whatever a client’s needs, there is very likely an appropriate technique and a skilled massage therapist who can meet them.