Much has been written listing benefits of massage – for health, posture, blood pressure, to relieve specific conditions and so on - but still the number one reason people visit us is for relaxation. In the process of day-to-day living, particularly in London, the body can produce build-ups of the “stress hormone” cortisol. High cortisol levels have their own side effects (the common symptoms of feeling stressed out) – sleeplessness, headaches, sometimes digestive problems
This is where massage therapy comes in. In a massage, a caring, safe touch is an invitation to relax. This, together with pain relief, generally produces a "relaxation response". The relaxation response is an involuntary response to massage techniques and touch. The relaxation response is a state in which heart rate and breathing rate slow, blood pressure declines, muscles relax and cortisol production falls. The relaxation response can also increase the levels of serotonin, a chemical that contributes to feelings of happiness and general well-being.
Massage has been shown to decrease cortisol levels in the body. With decreasing cortisol, the body enters a sort of “R&R” mode – and happily the effect can last well after the end of the massage. In fact, massage can trigger many chemical responses that result in lasting feelings of relaxation, lowered stress and improved mood. With improved relaxation comes a host of ancillary benefits: you handle pressure better and enjoy a state of greater mental alertness, it reinforces a positive attitude and improves mental outlook, and your creative thinking can be calmer and clearer.
Thai Kosai blends the best relaxing massage therapy styles and techniques to kick start the relaxation process. If you enjoy relaxing massage therapy, you’re in the right place. In addition to encouraging relaxation, ongoing massage therapy can reduce pain, increase energy levels and improve overall physical and mental performance. The massage environment is important to maximise relaxation – so our soothing music, warm towels and carefully selected essential oils all compound the relaxation effect - a hard environment to find in London!
Why not book a massage and work on cutting your stress levels today?