{"id":70595,"date":"2025-05-14T23:41:55","date_gmt":"2025-05-14T13:41:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/getblys.com\/uk\/?p=70595"},"modified":"2025-09-18T20:24:24","modified_gmt":"2025-09-18T10:24:24","slug":"massage-for-strengthening-immune-system","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/","title":{"rendered":"Massage &amp; Immune Health: Can It Really Strengthen Defences?"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text]\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"569\" class=\"wp-image-70596\" src=\"https:\/\/getblys.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/massage-for-immune-system.png\" alt=\"massage &amp; immune health | book a massage &amp; immune health now\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/massage-for-immune-system.png 819w, https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/massage-for-immune-system-768x534.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><\/figure>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nAfter several years of lockdowns, vaccinations and endless public\u2011health messaging about \u201cbuilding immunity\u201d, Australians are more interested than ever in practical, evidence\u2011backed ways to stay well.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nOne option that often flies under the radar is massage therapy. Beyond easing tight shoulders, a well\u2011timed rub\u2011down can tweak important immune markers, calm stress hormones and keep the lymphatic \u201cmotorway\u201d running smoothly.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nThis blog explores massage for immune support in depth, so you can decide whether booking a session makes sense for you or your family.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #100249;color:#100249\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #100249;color:#100249\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#How_the_immune_system_keeps_you_safe\" >How the immune system keeps you safe<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#How_massage_interacts_with_immunity_the_science_so_far\" >How massage interacts with immunity: the science so far<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#1_Natural_killer_cell_activity_climbs\" >1. Natural killer cell activity climbs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#2_Lymphocyte_counts_rise_with_regular_sessions\" >2. Lymphocyte counts rise with regular sessions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#3_Cortisol_comes_down_and_that_matters\" >3. Cortisol comes down and that matters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#4_Lymph_flow_gets_a_helpful_push\" >4. Lymph flow gets a helpful push<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#Spotlight_on_lymphatic_drainage_massage\" >Spotlight on lymphatic drainage massage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#Which_massage_styles_suit_different_immune_needs\" >Which massage styles suit different immune needs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#Massage_during_cold_and_flu_season_practical_tips\" >Massage during cold and flu season: practical tips<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#Who_is_likely_to_benefit_the_most\" >Who is likely to benefit the most?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#When_to_skip_or_postpone_a_session\" >When to skip or postpone a session<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#Your_immune%E2%80%91support_action_plan\" >Your immune\u2011support action plan<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/#Your_Wellness_Journey_Starts_Here\" >Your Wellness Journey Starts Here<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_the_immune_system_keeps_you_safe\"><\/span>How the immune system keeps you safe<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nYour body\u2019s internal security team works around the clock to spot threats and repair damage.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nThe immune system is a sophisticated network of white blood cells, chemical messengers and lymphatic vessels that:<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li>recognise and destroy viruses, bacteria and abnormal or cancerous cells<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>remember past invaders so they can mount a faster defence next time<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>clear away cellular waste before it creates chronic inflammation<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nNatural killer (NK) cells and lymphocytes (T\u2011 and B\u2011cells) sit at the front line. When the number or activity of these cells drops, infections and slow healing follow. Stress, poor sleep and inactivity all blunt this response \u2013 which is where massage may step in.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_massage_interacts_with_immunity_the_science_so_far\"><\/span>How massage interacts with immunity: the science so far<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nA growing body of research links therapeutic touch with measurable changes in immune biology.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Natural_killer_cell_activity_climbs\"><\/span>1. Natural killer cell activity climbs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nStronger NK cells mean faster detection and destruction of virus\u2011infected cells.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/233405318_A_Randomized_Placebo-Controlled_Trial_of_Massage_Therapy_on_the_Immune_System_of_Preterm_Infants\">randomised trial<\/a> of pre\u2011term infants given twice\u2011daily moderate\u2011pressure massage for seven days recorded a 53\u202f% rise in circulating NK cells and improved weight gain.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5564319\/#R1\">Similar work in HIV\u2011positive adults<\/a> found a 24\u202f% lift in NK\u2011cell cytotoxicity after a month of daily 45\u2011minute massages.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>More recently, <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/1279663\/\">a 2021 crossover study<\/a> with healthy middle\u2011aged women showed a single 60\u2011minute Swedish massage bumped NK\u2011cell activity for up to 24\u202fhours.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nTogether, these findings paint a clear picture: even a brief, moderate\u2011pressure session can rally your body\u2019s first\u2011line defenders when you need them most.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Lymphocyte_counts_rise_with_regular_sessions\"><\/span>2. Lymphocyte counts rise with regular sessions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nMore infection\u2011fighting cells translate into a broader immune arsenal.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nWeekly Swedish massage for five weeks <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC3419840\/#:~:text=Compared%20to%20the%20touch%20control,production%20of%20pro%2Dinflammatory%20cytokines.\">boosted total lymphocyte counts by 11\u202f%<\/a> compared with a light\u2011touch control in a University of Illinois pilot. Subsequent work in office workers confirmed the trend and noted parallel reductions in inflammatory C\u2011reactive protein.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Cortisol_comes_down_and_that_matters\"><\/span>3. Cortisol comes down and that matters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nLower stress hormones allow immune cells to communicate and replicate more efficiently.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nHigh cortisol suppresses T\u2011cell signalling and vaccine responses. A <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/35339652\/\">2022 randomised trial<\/a> found that reclining in a full\u2011body massage chair three times a week for six weeks cut serum cortisol by 2.7\u202f\u00b5g\/dL. Manual massage shows an even sharper one\u2011off drop of 31\u202f% immediately post\u2011session.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Lymph_flow_gets_a_helpful_push\"><\/span>4. Lymph flow gets a helpful push<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nA freer lymphatic system means faster transport of immune cells and waste removal.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nManual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a gentle technique that encourages stagnant lymph fluid to move. A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amtamassage.org\/publications\/massage-therapy-journal\/research-update-lymph-drainage\/\">2023 systematic review<\/a> concluded that regular MLD improves lymph transport and reduces inflammatory swelling in post\u2011surgical lymphoedema.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nBecause lymph fluid carries white blood cells, efficient flow is crucial for rapid immune surveillance.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n<strong>In short:<\/strong> Across infants, adults and older populations, massage reliably raises protective cell counts, dampens stress chemistry and supports the lymphatic \u201chighway\u201d that circulates immune cells.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Spotlight_on_lymphatic_drainage_massage\"><\/span>Spotlight on lymphatic drainage massage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nMLD combines feather\u2011light pressure with strategic strokes that follow lymph vessel pathways.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nUnlike deep tissue work, lymphatic massage keeps pressure gentle so that the superficial lymph capillaries can open and close easily. Reported benefits include:<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li><strong>Reduced fluid congestion<\/strong>: a blessing if you feel puffy during humid Aussie summers or after long flights.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Faster clearance of metabolic waste<\/strong>: less \u201cclutter\u201d lets immune cells reach targets sooner.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Potential NK\u2011cell bump<\/strong>: early studies note improved NK\u2011cell counts after four weekly sessions.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n<strong><em>Ready to try it?<\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/getblys.com\/ca\/services\/lymphatic-drainage-massage\/\"> <strong><em>Book an in\u2011home lymphatic massage with Blys<\/em><\/strong><\/a><strong><em> and let a qualified therapist come to you. Perfect when you are run\u2011down and want to avoid crowded clinics.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_massage_styles_suit_different_immune_needs\"><\/span>Which massage styles suit different immune needs?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n<em>Choosing the right modality can amplify specific immune benefits while matching comfort levels.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\r\n<table class=\"has-fixed-layout\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Need<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Recommended style<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Why it helps<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Chronic stress, poor sleep<\/td>\r\n<td>Swedish relaxation massage<\/td>\r\n<td>Moderate pressure lowers cortisol and boosts parasympathetic tone.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Post\u2011viral fatigue<\/td>\r\n<td>Lymphatic drainage<\/td>\r\n<td>Encourages waste removal and gentle circulation without exhausting the body.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Workout recovery<\/td>\r\n<td>Sports or remedial massage<\/td>\r\n<td>Reduces muscle\u2011derived inflammatory cytokines, freeing immune resources.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Seasonal sniffles prevention<\/td>\r\n<td>Aromatherapy massage<\/td>\r\n<td>Certain essential oils (e.g., eucalyptus, tea tree) show mild antiviral effects, and the massage portion supports NK cells.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Desk\u2011bound congestion<\/td>\r\n<td>Chair massage<\/td>\r\n<td>Short, regular sessions keep lymph and blood moving when you cannot leave the office.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Massage_during_cold_and_flu_season_practical_tips\"><\/span>Massage during cold and flu season: practical tips<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nLayer massage with everyday habits for a broader shield.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\r\n<table class=\"has-fixed-layout\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong>Immune\u2011friendly habit<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>How massage helps<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong>Extra advice<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Prioritise sleep<\/td>\r\n<td>Evening relaxation massage triggers parasympathetic dominance, making it easier to nod off.<\/td>\r\n<td>Schedule sessions after work rather than at lunchtime.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Keep stress in check<\/td>\r\n<td>Lower cortisol improves vaccine responses and reduces URI risk.<\/td>\r\n<td>Pair massage with mindful breathing or guided imagery.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Support lymph movement<\/td>\r\n<td>MLD encourages drainage from swollen lymph nodes.<\/td>\r\n<td>Drink 250\u2013500\u202fml of water post\u2011massage so lymph can flow.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Stay active<\/td>\r\n<td>Massage eases sore muscles, encouraging regular walks.<\/td>\r\n<td>Aim for 150\u202fmin of moderate activity weekly.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>Eat colourful plants<\/td>\r\n<td>Antioxidants back up immune cell repair; massage enhances nutrient delivery by boosting circulation.<\/td>\r\n<td>Add beetroot, berries and leafy greens to daily meals.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nA short series \u2013 weekly for four to six weeks \u2013 appears to give the most consistent immune gains. Consistency trumps intensity.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_is_likely_to_benefit_the_most\"><\/span>Who is likely to benefit the most?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nCertain life stages and lifestyles place extra strain on immunity.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li><strong>Busy professionals<\/strong> juggling deadlines and noticing frequent colds.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Parents<\/strong> catching every bug their children bring home from daycare.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Older Aussies<\/strong> whose immune efficiency naturally dips with age.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>People recovering from mild viral infections<\/strong> wanting a gentle push back to full strength.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Athletes in heavy training blocks<\/strong> dealing with transient immune suppression from hard workouts.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nIf you fall into any of these groups \u2013 or simply value proactive wellness \u2013 including massage in your routine could be a smart move.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_skip_or_postpone_a_session\"><\/span>When to skip or postpone a session<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nEven natural therapies have moments where caution is wiser than persistence.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nMassage is generally safe, but put your health first if you:<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li>have an active fever, contagious infection or unexplained rash<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>recently had major surgery without medical clearance<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>experience severe lymphoedema or uncontrolled heart conditions<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>are undergoing chemotherapy (book an oncology\u2011trained therapist instead)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nGrab a<a href=\"https:\/\/getblys.com\/ca\/massage-gift-voucher\/\"> Blys massage gift voucher<\/a> and schedule when you are ready \u2013 no expiry stress and no need to brave waiting rooms.<\/p>\r\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_immune%E2%80%91support_action_plan\"><\/span>Your immune\u2011support action plan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n<em>Make proactive self\u2011care part of your wellness plan.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\nRegular massage isn\u2019t a magic shield, yet research shows it can lift natural\u2011killer cells, keep cortisol in check and support a healthy lymph flow. Schedule a weekly lymphatic drainage or Swedish session and back it up with solid sleep, colourful whole foods and steady movement. Together, these habits form a straightforward path to stronger everyday defences.<\/p>\r\n<p>\r\n\r\n<strong><em>Ready to put the plan into motion?<\/em><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/getblys.com\/ca\/\"><strong><em> Book an in\u2011home massage with Blys<\/em><\/strong><\/a><strong><em> or surprise someone with a Blys gift voucher and bring immune\u2011supporting self\u2011care straight to the doorstep.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_background&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;#faf1eb&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;3%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;3%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text]\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_Wellness_Journey_Starts_Here\"><\/span>Your Wellness Journey Starts Here<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=&#8221;jumbo&#8221; button_style=&#8221;regular&#8221; button_color_2=&#8221;Accent-Color&#8221; icon_family=&#8221;none&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/app.getblys.com\/uk\/new-booking\/?utm_source=website-blog&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=massage-for-strengthening-immune-system&#8221; text=&#8221;Book Now&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text] After several years of lockdowns, vaccinations and endless public\u2011health&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1913,"featured_media":70596,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[443,69,445],"tags":[],"reviewer":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-70595","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-blys-for-clients","8":"category-lifestyle","9":"category-self-care-101"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Massage &amp; Immune Health: Can It Really Strengthen Defences? | Blys<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Massage therapy can lift natural-killer cells, reduce stress hormones and support lymph flow, strengthening immune defences at home with Blys.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"Massage &amp; Immune Health: Can It Really Strengthen Defences? | Blys\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:description\" content=\"Massage therapy can lift natural-killer cells, reduce stress hormones and support lymph flow, strengthening immune defences at home with Blys.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:image\" content=\"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/massage-for-immune-system.png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@getblys\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@getblys\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Annia Soronio\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Massage &amp; Immune Health: Can It Really Strengthen Defences? | Blys","description":"Massage therapy can lift natural-killer cells, reduce stress hormones and support lymph flow, strengthening immune defences at home with Blys.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/blog\/massage-for-strengthening-immune-system\/","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_title":"Massage &amp; Immune Health: Can It Really Strengthen Defences? | Blys","twitter_description":"Massage therapy can lift natural-killer cells, reduce stress hormones and support lymph flow, strengthening immune defences at home with Blys.","twitter_image":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/massage-for-immune-system.png","twitter_creator":"@getblys","twitter_site":"@getblys","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Annia Soronio","Est. reading time":"7 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70595","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1913"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=70595"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70595\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":71595,"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70595\/revisions\/71595"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/70596"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=70595"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=70595"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=70595"},{"taxonomy":"reviewer","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wp.getblys.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/reviewer?post=70595"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}