Absolute Beginner's Guide to Alternative Medicine

Each time a person experiences a trauma, undergoes an inflammatory process, or

suffers from poor posture over time, the fascial system becomes restricted and the

person loses flexibility and spontaneity of motion. As the fascia continue to slowly

tighten, an abnormal pressure develops on the nerves, muscles, bones, or organs,

resulting in poor cellular efficiency, necrosis, pain, and dysfunction throughout the

body.

146 ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TOALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE

PHYSICAL LEVEL

■ Relieves muscle tension and stiffness

■ Reduces muscle spasm and tension

■ Speeds recovery from exertion

■ Improves joint flexibility and range of motion

■ Increases ease and efficiency of movement

■ Improves posture

■ Stimulates lymphatic circulation, which decreases edema

■ Improves local circulation, which increases healing of injured tissues

■ Lowers blood pressure, slows heart rate

■ Eases tension headaches

MENTAL LEVEL

■ Induces a relaxed state of alertness

■ Reduces mental stress thus clearing the mind

■ Increases capacity for clearer thinking

EMOTIONAL LEVEL

■ Satisfies the need for caring and nurturing touch

■ Increases feelings of well-being, decreases mild depression

■ Enhances self-image

■ Reduces levels of anxiety

■ Increases awareness of mind-body connection