Massage Increases Immunity

Regular Massage Therapy can assist your immune system in fighting off viruses, but first it will help to understand what  our immune system is made up of.

Our immune system is made up of several organs including our skin, the largest organ of our body, as well as our lymphatic system, which has several parts. We also have lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that attack invading viruses, bacteria, and toxins and are created in our bone marrow.

The lymphatic system is made up of a network of lymph nodes and vessels, that transport and filter fluids that seep from blood vessels and damaged tissue from injury sites as well as dead cells and bacteria. These fluids are known as lymph fluid, and only move through muscular contraction or manual manipulation, such as from Massage Therapy.

Massage has been shown to increase production of lymphocytes, aiding in fighting invading viruses and bacteria. It also increases circulation, moving metabolic waste from our blood and lymph to the kidneys to be filtered out and excreted through urine, or sweat.

Massage Therapy has also been proven to decrease cortisol levels. Cortisol is a corticosteroid that inhibits white blood cell function, our bodies natural defense against bacteria and viruses.

Massage can also decrease levels of harmful cytokines, which are molecules that produce inflammation, and can cause problems throughout our entire immune system.

Its probably not a good idea to get a massage when you are sick, as it can make you feel worse, but can also spread sickness to your Massage Therapist, although by receiving regular Massage Therapy you can greatly reduce the chances of sickness, or at least reduce recovery time and symptoms.