A recent study published by Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice looked at the effects of mechanical massage provided by massage chairs and binaural beats (brain massage) on mental fatigue and cognitive function in healthy adults. The study found that brain massage (a combination of mechanical massage and binaural beats) was effective in reducing mental fatigue and improving cognitive function, as measured by electroencephalography (EEG) and five cognitive tests. The specific cognitive functions that were found to be improved were sustained attention, verbal short-term and long-term memory, and non-verbal long-term memory. This suggests that massage chairs that provide both mechanical massage and binaural beats may be a helpful tool for reducing mental fatigue and improving cognitive function. However, it is important to note that this is a single study and further research is needed to confirm these findings and to better understand the mechanisms behind the effects of brain massage on mental fatigue and cognitive function.
Massage chairs can provide stress relief in several ways. First, the mechanical massage provided by the chair can help to relax tense muscles, which can help to alleviate physical tension and discomfort in the body. This can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of relaxation. In addition, the act of sitting in a massage chair and taking time to relax can be a form of self-care that helps to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. The warmth and vibration of the chair can also contribute to a feeling of relaxation. Finally, some massage chairs may have features such as calming music or ambient lighting, which can further enhance the sense of relaxation and stress relief.
But long before this study was published, there were many well-known benefits of massage chairs. Here are the top 10 that may surprise you.
Relaxation and stress relief
Massage chairs can provide stress relief in several ways. First, the mechanical massage provided by the chair can help to relax tense muscles, which can help to alleviate physical tension and discomfort in the body. This can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of relaxation. In addition, the act of sitting in a massage chair and taking time to relax can be a form of self-care that helps to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. The warmth and vibration of the chair can also contribute to a feeling of relaxation. Finally, some massage chairs may have features such as calming music or ambient lighting, which can further enhance the sense of relaxation and stress relief.
Improved circulation
Massage chairs can improve circulation in a few different ways. The mechanical massage provided by the chair can help to stimulate blood flow by applying pressure to the muscles and tissues of the body. This can help to increase circulation and promote healing in the body. In addition, the warmth and vibration of the chair can also help to increase circulation by dilating the blood vessels and promoting blood flow. Finally, the act of sitting in a massage chair and relaxing can also help to improve circulation by reducing stress and tension in the body, which can help to improve overall blood flow.
Pain relief
Massage stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body. In addition, the warmth and vibration of the chair may also help to relieve pain by increasing circulation and promoting healing in the body.
Improved flexibility and range of motion:
The mechanical massage provided by the chair can help to loosen and relax muscles, which can make them more pliable and easier to stretch. The heat therapy function of some massage chairs can also help to relax muscles and improve circulation, which can further aid in flexibility. Additionally, the use of massage chairs can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness, which can make it easier to move and stretch. Overall, regular use of a massage chair can help to improve flexibility and range of motion in the muscles and joints.
Improved sleep:
There are a few reasons why massage chairs can make you feel tired or sleepy. One reason is that massage can help relax the muscles and reduce tension in the body, which can make you feel more relaxed and calm overall. Massage can also lower heart rate and blood pressure, which can contribute to a feeling of relaxation and sleepiness. In addition, massage can stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood and promoting relaxation, which may also contribute to feelings of fatigue or sleepiness following a massage. Finally, the simple act of lying down and resting during a massage may also contribute to feelings of fatigue and sleepiness.
Enhanced immune system function:
Massage therapy including massage chair use may have some benefits for the immune system. Some research suggests that massage may improve immune function by reducing stress and increasing blood flow, which can help the body to fight off infections. However, it’s important to note that massage is not a substitute for proper medical care and should not be used as a primary treatment for serious medical conditions. If you have concerns about your immune system, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional.
Enhanced digestion:
Yes, massage can potentially help with digestion. Massage can help to relax the muscles of the digestive system, which may help to improve the flow of food through the intestines and ease bloating and discomfort. It can also help to reduce stress, which is a common trigger for digestive issues. In addition, massage can stimulate the production of endorphins, which are chemicals in the body that can help to reduce pain and improve mood. However, it is important to note that massage is not a replacement for medical treatment and if you are experiencing persistent digestive issues, you should consult with a healthcare professional.
Increased energy levels:
Massage can definitely help to increase energy levels. Massage can help to relax the muscles, improve circulation, and reduce stress, all of which can contribute to an increase in energy. In addition, massage can also help to improve sleep, which can also help to increase energy levels. Some people find that they feel more energized after a massage because they feel more relaxed and rejuvenated. It is important to note that the effect of massage on energy levels may vary from person to person, and the type of massage may also play a role. For example, a more invigorating massage such as a sports massage may have a different effect on energy levels than a more relaxing massage such as a Swedish massage.
Improved skin health:
There are several types of massage that can be beneficial for the skin and while a massage chair can’t provide all of them, they can help to a great extent. Here are a few options beyond use of a massage chair:
Facial massage: A facial massage can help to improve circulation and promote the production of collagen, which can improve the appearance of the skin.
Swedish massage: A Swedish massage can be beneficial for the skin because it involves long, smooth strokes that can help to increase circulation and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
Aromatherapy massage: Aromatherapy massage involves the use of essential oils, which can be beneficial for the skin. Some essential oils, such as lavender and chamomile, have calming and soothing properties that can be helpful for people with sensitive skin.
Hot stone massage: Hot stone massage involves the use of heated stones to massage the body. The heat from the stones can help to increase circulation and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial for the skin.
It is important to note that the best massage for the skin will depend on an individual’s skin type and any specific skin concerns they may have. It is always a good idea to consult with a licensed massage therapist or skin care professional to determine the best type of massage for your skin.
10. Eliminate Toxins
Massage Chairs can help eliminate toxins from the body through a process called lymphatic drainage. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes that help to filter waste products and toxins from the body’s tissues. During a massage, the therapist can use techniques that help to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid, which can help to flush out toxins and other waste products from the body.
In addition, massage can also help to improve circulation, which can help to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cells and tissues and remove waste products more efficiently. Massage can also stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural chemicals that can help to improve mood and reduce stress, and this can also help to support the body’s natural detoxification processes.