Massage Reduces Insomnia in Postmenopausal Women

A recent pilot study published in the peer-reviewed journal Clinics examined the effects of therapeutic massage on anxiety, depression and difficulty sleeping in post-menopausal women.  This small study included 7 post-menopausal women with insomnia.  Each of the women received two 1 hour sessions of massage a week for 8 weeks.  Surveys evaluating anxiety and depression and a sleep diary were completed before during and after the 8 week study.  Researchers also used polysomnography to assess sleep quality.  Results of this study revealed that massage therapy decreased the severity of sleep disturbance related to menopause and improved sleep quality. There was also a decrease in anxiety and depression among these same women.