Can a Massage Prevent Cold, Flu?

You've heard of, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." What about, "A massage a month to help fight the flu?"

Does it sound too good to be true?

Here's the relaxing reality.

Some of the pampering pros say getting a massage isn't only one of the most relaxing things in the world. They say, even in Houston's latest blast of winter, it's one of the best ways to fight off the cold and flu.

"The massage, it really loosens up your muscles. So it relieves all the tension and tightness and that eliminates your stress," says Denise Walker, owner of Massage Heights.

Walker says eliminating stress keeps that stress from suppressing your immune system. She says while rub downs are relaxing, they also reduce your chances of becoming ill by taking out harmful toxins from your body.

Walker points out massaging helps stimulate your lymphatic glands, the natural ways to get rid of negative toxins.

"It improves their circulation, sending all the essential nutrients and oxygen to the body," says Walker.

She says with better blood flow, your body better fights off germs.

"That's something good to know if it's gonna help me stay healthy" says Houston mom Evelyn Branscomb.

It may not be what the doctor ordered, but getting a massage might just be the relaxing remedy you need for more reasons than one.