Soft Touch Bodywork (5 Soft Touch Benefits!)
Soft touch bodywork, a delicate derivative of tantric massage, has long existed in therapeutic techniques. Yet, many remain unaware of its profound impacts, often dismissing it based on prevailing misconceptions that more invasive forms of massage must produce greater physical results.
For optimal results, it is crucial to start with a clean surface, free from dust, marks, and other contaminants.
In today’s blog, I want to provide some science-backed research on the benefits of this therapy. Deep tissue, sports massage and cupping all have their place, but sometimes it’s better to take it easy. Feel soft hands flowing gently over your skin, allowing stress to slip away effortlessly.
So, without further ado, let’s delve deep into the five benefits of Soft Touch Massage that extend beyond mere relaxation.
Enjoy! Maya xxx
What is Soft Touch Therapy?
Soft Touch Therapy is a unique and innovative approach to massage therapy that focuses on providing clients a gentle, soothing, and relaxing experience for our trusted clients. Unlike more intense forms of massage, Soft Touch Therapy uses delicate, flowing strokes and pressure points to release tension and promote relaxation. This type of therapy is designed to help individuals achieve deep relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or seeking a calming and rejuvenating experience, Soft Touch Therapy offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
1. Enhanced Human Emotional Wellbeing
Imagine a session where the subtle strokes of hands induce a profound emotional calm. This isn’t magic but pure science. Let’s look at some research and see how physical touch affects the chemical makeup of our bodies and our emotional well-being, and how it can change our view of emotional health:
Connection to Oxytocin Production
Soft touch stimulates the release of oxytocin– often dubbed the ‘love hormone’. This hormone, pivotal to bonding and social interactions, helps foster trust, reduces fear, and increases empathy. The gentle touch can fill our system with this heartwarming hormone.
Reduction of Cortisol Levels
On the flip side of oxytocin’s euphoria is cortisol, the notorious stress hormone. Prolonged periods of stress can lead to an overproduction of cortisol, causing detrimental health impacts.
“Average cortisol level was found to increase approximately 9 times in stressful periods compared with that in relaxed periods.” National Library of Medicine
With its gentle techniques, soft touch bodywork has been observed to lower cortisol levels, creating a serene state of mind.
2. Improvement in Physical Pain Management
Anyone who has experienced this type of massage will laud its efficacy in pain alleviation. But what’s the underlying mechanism?
Identifying the correct site for treatment is crucial to maximising the benefits of soft-touch bodywork.
Neurological Mechanisms at Play
The Gate Control Theory of Pain posits that non-painful input, like soft touch, can close the nerve “gates” to painful input, preventing pain sensations from travelling to the central nervous system. This means that the soothing strokes of can block out the pain. Another excellent example of pain prevention via this method is using a TENS machine)) which uses electrical nerve stimulation to prevent pain signals from being sent to the brain.
Increased Blood Circulation
There’s more than just neurological magic at play. Soft touch enhances blood circulation. With improved circulation comes the enhanced delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to tissues, coupled with the efficient removal of metabolic waste. This not only relieves pain but also promotes cellular health. Increased blood circulation is the primary physical benefit of almost all forms of massage, and soft touch is no exception.
3. Reconnect With Your Own Body
Bodywork is an invitation to reconnect – not just with a partner, but with one’s own self.
Intuitive Awareness
Amid the daily hustle, we often lose touch with our own bodily cues. Soft touch therapy brings one’s attention back to subtle physical sensations, fostering heightened body awareness and intuition.
Reconnection with Oneself
For those who’ve faced trauma, dissociation – a feeling of being disconnected from oneself – can be a haunting reality. With its grounding techniques, soft touch bodywork offers a safe space to reconcile with one’s physical being. Body confidence comes easily with regular sessions. Put yourself in the hands of a professional, and you’ll be surprised how ‘normal’ being undressed in the company of another person can become. Specialized practitioners in Northampton offer this type of therapy, ensuring a professional and tailored experience.
Non-judgemental, professional environments can significantly benefit one’s body confidence and self-esteem.
4. Soft Touch Bodywork Can Strengthen Your Immune System
If told that a massage could boost immunity, many would be sceptical. However, soft touch bodywork's influence on our body's defence system is truly intriguing.
Lymphatic System Stimulation
The lymphatic system acts as our internal security guard, detecting and fighting off invaders. With their gentle strokes, soft touch techniques stimulate the lymphatic flow, boosting the body's natural detoxification and defence processes.
Soft Touch and White Blood Cells
Emerging studies indicate that soft-touch bodywork can elevate the activity and production of white blood cells – our body's tiny soldiers. This accelerates illness recovery and fortifies the body's preventive measures against them.
5. Enhanced Intimacy and Relationship Bonding
Touch, in relationships, speaks a silent language, one that soft touch bodywork is fluent in. Modern technology, like constantly checking one's browser, can hinder personal connections, which soft touch bodywork can help restore.
Non-Verbal Communication
Relationships thrive on understanding, and touch is an eloquent communicator. Soft touch offers couples a platform to express, comfort, and connect without uttering a word, strengthening their bond.
The Role of Vulnerability
Soft touch bodywork is a dance of trust and mutual respect. As individuals open up to the experience, they inadvertently open up to their partners, paving the way for deeper emotional connections.
How Soft Touch Bodywork Can Improve Sleep Quality
Struggling to get a good night’s sleep? Soft Touch Bodywork might be the answer. By promoting deep relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety, it can help prepare your body and mind for a restful night’s sleep. The gentle, soothing strokes and pressure points used in this therapy can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythms, improving sleep quality and duration. This therapy can also alleviate symptoms of insomnia and other sleep disorders, contributing to better overall health and well-being. Imagine drifting off to sleep effortlessly, feeling calm and rejuvenated.
Finding a Qualified Practitioner for Soft Touch Therapy
When it comes to finding a qualified practitioner for Soft Touch Therapy, doing your homework is crucial. Start by researching practitioners who have received training from reputable institutions and have experience working with clients with similar needs. Online reviews can be a valuable resource, offering insights into the experiences of others. Don’t hesitate to ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had positive experiences with Soft Touch Therapy. Additionally, it’s essential to verify the practitioner’s credentials, ensuring they are licensed and insured to practice in your state or country. A little due diligence can go a long way in finding a practitioner who can provide a safe and effective Soft Touch Therapy experience.
The Benefits of Soft Touch Bodywork – My Review and Conclusion
The tapestry of all bodywork forms is woven with myriad benefits, some apparent and others delightfully surprising. From enhancing emotional resilience to fostering physical well-being, this art holds a promise for all. Whether exploring it for self-care or strengthening bonds, this is a journey worth embarking upon. Set a date to try soft touch bodywork for yourself and experience its transformative effects.
References
Gate Control Theory - Physio-Pedia
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