If you are not feeling right, your problem could be within your muscles. Maybe you are having aches and pains or you feel tense and out of sorts. You may feel that you have lost some flexibility in the joints or back. This may be a good time to enjoy some massage therapy. This practice is time tested and dates back to ancient times, and can be very beneficial. Here are the top ten health benefits of massage.

Improved posture - If you work all day you may have tense muscles and this can affect the way you stand and walk. A trained masseuse works with tired muscles and this can improve your posture and mobility.

Improved breathing - Massaging can make breathing easier. When this occurs, more oxygen is available in the body. This can help rid your body of many painful conditions.

Better skin - Maybe you suffer with dry skin. The lotions used in massaging will help. You may notice increased elasticity also. This can make the skin appear younger and healthier.

Circulation - Perhaps you have to sit at a desk all day and this can impede circulation. Gentle and effective massaging is good for your circulation. It relaxes blood vessels and makes them more efficient.

Joint flexibility - When you are massaged it can take away some types of joint pain and stiffness. Talk to your therapist about joint problems. He or she knows what to do to relax the right muscle groups that can bring you relief.

Relief from stress and anxiety - Anxiety and stress are a common problem in the Twenty First Century. Tension easily builds up in the neck, shoulders, and back. When this tension is released, one can let go of many problems that are causing stress.

Mental performance - When you do not feel tense or stressed, you can think more clearly without distractions. It becomes easier to focus on the task at hand. Your work efficiency may improve and this can lead to greater job satisfaction. Job satisfaction can lead to promotions and better paying positions.

Relaxed mind - When the body can thoroughly relax, the mind will follow. This opens up the channel for creativity and freedom of thought. You may find it easier to solve problems when you are mentally at ease.

Peace from within - Peace of mind is an elusive thing for many people. However, a good massage can quiet the mind and often bring peace. You may increase your sense of self-awareness and see things from a new perspective.

A need for human touch - Just about everyone enjoys being touched. The feel of another person can cause a great sense of well-being. This is need that most people carry with them from birth to the grave, and never leaves.

The top ten health benefits of massage does not include all of them. You may discover many other good things when you see your professional masseuse. You will enjoy a program of therapy that is personalized to your needs. This can help you feel better and get more enjoyment from life.