Getting a massage not only helps you relax, it might also benefit your immune system. Clinical studies have indicated that regular massage not only helps alleviate stress, but can naturally increase the immune system’s cytotoxic capacity (the activity level of the body’s natural “killer cells”) and decrease the number of T-cells, which improves the body’s immune functioning overall. Furthermore, massage therapy helps to improve your blood’s circulation and lymph drainage, two systems that help to flush out those nasty little invaders that can hamper your immunity.

In one study by Gail Ironson, M.D., HIV positive men were given 45 minute massages five days a week, for a month. They showed an increase in serotonin and an increase in cells that are viewed as the first line of defence in the immune system.

Most of the people are unaware that massage actually has a profound influence on your immune system. A warm muscle is a happy muscle. Studies show that a higher body temperature helps certain immune cells work better. Just like regular exercise can keep your muscles strong, regular massage can help keep your immune system performing at its peak.

If you work really hard you deserve to relax. Even better, taking the time to get regular massage therapy can help keep you from having to take sick days off and miss all that hard work you love to do! It’s hard to lead a stressful life when a weakened immune system gets in the way. So get proactive and get a massage today!