Medical research estimates that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. Massage is an effective tool for managing this stress, which translates into:
- Decreased anxiety
- Enhanced sleep quality
- Greater energy
- Improved concentration
- Increased circulation
- Reduced fatigue
It's important to remember that our dogs pick up on and react to our energy. When we're stressed, especially chronically, we are likely not communicating / projecting the balanced energy our dogs need to maintain balance themselves. For example, we may feel we don't have time or energy to walk / exercise our dog regularly. We may feel so fatigued that consistent, effective discipline and reinforcement are no longer top priorities, and our dog may start to act out. Massage can be an effective approach to addressing unwanted behaviors, along with a thorough look at ourselves. This will also lead to greater wellbeing for you.
The primary goal of maintenance massage is to decrease muscular tension. This translates into:
- Decreased recovery time between walks / exercise, by removing metabolic waste products
- Decreased post-workout discomfort, by releasing naturally occurring endorphins
- Decreased chance of overuse- / stress-related injuries, by lengthening muscle fibers
- Improved immune function, by stimulating the lymphatic system
- Prevention of chronic conditions, by regular monitoring and early detection
The effects of massage on the entire body are wide ranging and far reaching:
Circulatory System
- Encourages development of stronger cardiac muscle
- Improves oxygen and nutrient supply to cells and vital organs
- Decreases blood pressure
- Improves elimination of metabolic waste
Digestive System
- Relaxes the intestinal muscles
- Stimulates peristalsis
- Improves blood flow to the alimentary (digestive) tract
- Stimulates liver and kidney function
- Improves appetite
Muscular System
- Relaxes or stimulates muscles to relieve soreness, tension, stiffness, or weakness
- Mobilizes soft tissues
- Improves joint flexibility
- Improves elimination of metabolic waste
Nervous System
- Relieves pain
- Stimulates motor nerves
- Relieves restlessness and sleep disturbances
- Improves proprioception
Respiratory System
- Improves respiration
Lymphatic System
- Drains stagnant lymph nodes
- Stimulates follicular oils and sebaceous glands
- Improves coat quality
- Removes dead skin and loose hair
Skeletal System
- Improves alignment of skeletal structures without force
Massage can also help specifically address a number of health issues:
- Alleviate neck and back pain
- Improve range of motion
- Assist with shorter, easier whelping and recovery time
- Ease medication dependence
- Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body's natural defense system
- Improve the condition of the body's largest organ—the skin
- Lessen depression and anxiety
- Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks
- Reduce post-surgery adhesions and swelling
- Reduce spasms and cramping
- Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller
Is my dog a good candidate for massage, bodywork and / or other holistic modalities?
There are a few contraindications for massage, such as certain heart-related conditions, certain cancers, infectious diseases, open wounds, undiagnosed lumps, and fever. However, most dogs can benefit from maintenance / preventative massage, bodywork and other holistic modalities. Examples include companion animals, healthy athletic animals, senior and geriatric animals, and working animals (scent dogs, police dogs. assistance dogs, herding dogs, etc.). In the case of injury or illness -- post veterinary exam, diagnosis and treatment -- massage can be an excellent tool during the rehabilitation process and will be valuable in maintaining fitness, flexibility and muscle strength.
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