Cold & Flu Season, We Meet Again In the United Sates, the flu season is considered October through May. In addition to washing your hands, taking a high quality multi vitamin, and other preventative measures against colds and flu such as immune support with the correct nutrtional intake of super foods. Another unlikely force has been proven to enhance our bodies immune system function, massage. In a 2010 study, scientists at Cedars-Sinai investigated the physical effects of massage therapy. Results are in and the 29 subjects who received 45 minutes of Swedish massage had an immune boosting response when compared to the 24 participants who received 45 minutes of light touch. Hormones and blood cells were measured before and after the massage, and at regular intervals up to one hour post massage. Interestingly, lymphocytes—cells that help the immune system defend the body from disease— also increased in the Swedish massage participants. Of important note is that these results were seen after a single massage. The blood tests of participants who experienced Swedish massage showed changes indicating a benefit to the immune system, including a sizeable decrease in arginine vasopressin, a hormone that contributes to aggressive behavior. Scientists also noted a small decrease in the stress hormone cortisol. Frankly put, considering massage therapy as a regular part of your health and wellness regimen should be a no brainer. The research indicates that massage doesn’t only feel good, it is also good for you! People often seek out massage as part of a healthy lifestyle, but there hasn’t been much physiological proof of the body’s heightened immune response following massage until now. Stay healthy this season and enjoy the benefits of enhanced immune system function!
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