Massage Envy experts answer your questions

Q: Can regular massage therapy during the winter months help keep me healthy?

A: Regular therapeutic massage can provide significant advantages beyond the immediate benefit of relaxation. People who experience high levels of stress tend to get sick more than others. Combine stress with lack of sleep and poor nutrition, and our body's ability to naturally protect itself against bacteria and infection is greatly reduced. Numerous studies have indicated that massage increases the immune system's level of the body’s natural "killer cells," which improves the body's overall immune function.

Regular massage therapy treatments help boost the immune system by directly affecting circulation and indirectly affecting your lymphatic system. The circulation of red and white blood cells increases, which in turn helps to rid your body of unwanted debris or waste products that can cause disease. When your immune system is stronger, your body is more prepared to defend itself against those cold and flu viruses going around your workplace, school or even your home during the winter months. So keep yourself healthy during the long winter months by scheduling regular massage appointments.

—C.G. Funk, Licensed Massage Therapist and Vice President of Industry Relations and Product Development for Massage Envy

Do you have a question about massage therapy for our experts? Contact info@MassageEnvy.com. Type "Ask CG" in the subject line.