Cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of men and women in the United States, according to the American Heart Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So since February is American Heart month, let’s explore the ways in which massage can protect and improve your cardiovascular health.

A number of long-term studies have shown that a consistent massage program can decrease diastolic and systolic blood pressure. And maintaining a healthy blood pressure can contribute to lowering the odds of one having a heart attack. By massaging and relaxing the muscles of the body we reduce stress, stimulate nerve endings, release endorphins and decrease the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline.

Massage therapy releases contracted muscles and pushes venous blood towards the heart, easing the strain on the heart. In this way, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach for allowing the body to naturally heal itself.

Getting a massage on a regular basis from a skilled practitioner, like the LMTs at Haven, is the key to receiving cardiovascular benefits from massage. Keep in mind that the effects massage are cumulative. If the goal of massage is health maintenance, a massage every week or two can help one feel better and reduce tension and stress levels.