Article written by Andrew Wolfe LMP of Harmony Licensed Massage Therapy about the benefits of increased immune system with receiving regular massages.

1. Cold and Flu Season
5/29/2012
Bump up your immune system with a massage by Andrew Wolfe, LMP
Harvest is upon us again. It is a time to gather and take in the bounty of our labors. It is also a time
of reflection, a time to look within and assess our needs; to take inventory and appreciate what we
have. In the medical community and with the reminders in the media, we realize it is also cold and flu
season, a time when we can deplete our immune system. When this happens not just the individual
suffers but all those around them do also.
As a society we have been informed of communicable diseases and how they are spread. There are
many over the counter products as well as pharmaceuticals available to take in order to relieve signs
and symptoms of the cold or flu. However, prevention is always the best means of intervening in the
disease process. It is the responsibility of the individual to maintain their own health and well being.
You’ve heard of taking vitamins, eating healthily, drinking plenty of fluids, exercising regularly and
getting adequate amounts of sleep. Have you ever thought about the act of getting a massage as a
health benefit?
There are health studies , one specifically in the October issue of the Journal of Alternative and
Complimentary Medicine, which found that getting even just one massage boosts your immune
system. The study conducted drew blood samples from the test patients prior to and after a
massage. One group received a vigorous Swedish massage and another test group were provided
light touch massage. This study found that the patients who received the vigorous Swedish massage
had a beneficial change in their blood levels, improving their immune system compared to the other
group.
Relaxation is not the only benefit of massage therapy. Eliminating toxins is another benefit.
Detoxification with massage therapy, is the elimination of toxins and byproducts in the system by
way of the lymph and blood through the muscle manipulation and movement of the tissues. Stress,

2. especially when exposed long term, adversely affects our bodies.
Massage therapy need not be just for those seeking pampering. There is a wider audience tha n ever
before looking at the rehabilitation, disease prevention and maintenance of health through massage
therapy. It is a natural and effective means of maintaining health and creating a positive sense of
well being.
Dollar for dollar the time spent in getting a massage from a qualified professional LMT is an
extremely economical and health-full way to boost your immune system and maintain vigorous
health. Why not schedule a massage today?
Andrew Wolfe, LMP is a licensed massage practitioner based in Arlington Washington and has full
time private practice since 1987 and can be reached 360-653-4657
or http://www.harmonymassagetherapy.com. Check out his face book page
at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Andrew-WolfeLMP-Harmony-Licensed-Massage-Therapy/145287
Copy write by Andrew Wolfe, LMP
Contact Andrew Wolfe, LMP, Mms.