Self-care & Massage

Written By Lindsay Olver

Written by Lindsay Olver | Apr 4, 2019

There is a growing body of research suggesting how massage therapy can support mental health. Massage therapy has been used for years and across cultures to evoke feelings of relaxation and well-being.

So why do we often feel so relaxed or sleepy after a massage?

Research has shown that massage therapy significantly alters the biochemistry of the patient immediately following a treatment and over the course of many sessions. 

 The mood enhancing benefits of massage therapy are most notably due to the decrease in cortisol levels and an increase in parasympathetic nervous system activity. 

Cortisol is often known as the "stress hormone" because it is released during times of stress. Normal levels of cortisol are beneficial but if our bodies are producing too much cortisol for too long it can lead to an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and reduced immune function. A massage treatment helps calm the sympathetic nervous system and reduces cortisol. Saliva tests of patients with chronic pain, depression, and autoimmune disorders showed a decrease in cortisol levels after a massage treatment. 

Serotonin and dopamine are released during a massage treatment. These are neurotransmitters responsible for regulating sleep, mood, appetite, muscle contraction, motivation, and how we experience pleasure. In another study, healthcare workers receiving a 15-minute massage showed immediate decreases in job stress, anxiety, and depression with an increase in alertness. 

Massage therapy is great to have a part of your self-care plan to keep your physical and mental bodies healthy. It is shown to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression relates conditions, stress, chronic pain, and autoimmune disorders. It can help you improve your overall well-being and resilience against stress and illness. 


References

Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., Diego, M., Schanberg, S., & Kuhn, C. (2005). Cortisol decreases and serotonin and dopamine increase following massage therapy. International Journal of Neuroscience, 115, 1397-1413.

Lake, J. (2018). Massage therapy for anxiety and stress. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/integrative-mental-health-care/201810/massage-therapy-anxiety-and-stress


 

Lindsay Olver

Registered Massage Therapist

BA Psychology

Registered Yoga Teacher

 
Lindsay Olver

In 2011, Lindsay graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Major in Psychology. During her time at the U of S Lindsay competed as a Huskie in the sport of wrestling. She also represented Canada at the Junior World Championships in 2008, where she placed 10th.

Throughout her time in university, Lindsay also established a regular yoga practice which led to her eventually completing Joos Yoga’s 200hr yoga teacher program. She developed a passion for yoga and meditation and had a keen interest in all aspects of how the body works.

In 2016, Lindsay graduated from the Professional Institute of Massage Therapy 2200 hour Advanced Massage Therapy program with Great Distinction. She provides relaxation, deep tissue/therapeutic, pre/post-natal, and aromatherapy massage. Lindsay enjoys treating a diverse range of clients and conditions. Through her experiences in sport, yoga and meditation, Lindsay utilizes different aspects of her toolbox to provide her clients with an individualized well-rounded treatment.

Aside from her work as a massage therapist, Lindsay is a mom of two, loves spending time with her family, reading, and drinking tea!

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