According to a recent report, the massage industry is worth in excess of $16 to $20 billion . . . and it continues to grow despite the downturn in the economy. In fact, more than 250,000 massage therapists provide more than 140 billion massages annually in the United States. The key to success is highlighted by the fact that 85% of those surveyed agree that massage therapy is conducive to a person's overall health and wellness. Not surprisingly, spas are where consumers are heading to get their massages, and with this type of interest, employment for massage therapists is on the rise and increasing faster than most occupations. An interesting study published in 2010 followed a number of healthy adults who received one of two types of touch treatments. After the treatments, blood tests confirmed that those who received a Swedish Massage utilizing 'moderate pressure' exhibited signs of a decrease in stress hormones, an increase in white blood cells, and a positive boost to the immune system. The participants who received a 'light touch' treatment exhibited higher levels of oxytocin, a 'love' hormone associated with the ability to maintain a bond with others and create healthy interpersonal relationships. It is clear that massage helps the healing process while reducing stress and bringing about feelings of being a more centered and calm individual.
