Benefits of Massage for Seasonal Allergy Sufferers

While many welcome the bright, colorful flowers that signal the coming of spring and summer, to some they are a source of extreme discomfort. The increased pollen in the air can cause swollen eyes, sneezing, and coughing among those who suffer from seasonal allergies.

Thankfully massage therapy may be able to provide relief from these symptoms. A 2014 article from the American Massage Therapy Association outlines the potential benefits of massage for seasonal allergy sufferers.

Massage therapist David Lies recounts a time when a massage alleviated his allergy symptoms, allowing him to enjoy a vacation. Now a massage therapist himself, he has a special interest in working with others with allergies.

The article states that the relief likely comes from the following benefits of massage therapy:

• stress reduction
• increased circulation
• release of muscle tension
• “reprogramming the body’s panic reaction”

Lies points out that “relief from sinus congestion can result from just lying face down.” This along with the relaxation that comes with a massage can make a huge difference.