Helps relieve stress and aids relaxation Helps relieve muscle tension and stiffness Fosters faster healing of strained muscles and sprained ligaments; reduces pain and swelling; reduces formation of excessive scar tissue Reduces muscle spasms Provides greater joint flexibility and range of motion Promotes deeper and easier breathing Improves circulation of blood and movement of lymph fluids Helps relieve tension-related headaches and effects of eye-strain Enhances the health and nourishment Strengthens the immune system Fosters peace of mind Promotes a relaxed state of mental alertness Helps relieve mental stress Satisfies needs for caring-nurturing touch Fosters a feeling of well-being Reduces levels of anxiety Increases awareness of mind-body connection From: Enhancing Your Health with Therapeutic Massage, AMTA 2001