The nervous system, consisting of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system, is integral to our body's function, coordinating our actions, sensations, and thoughts. Massage therapy is known to influence the nervous system, promoting relaxation, easing stress and anxiety, and improving overall well-being (Field, 2010).
How Does Massage Therapy Affect the Nervous System?
Massage therapy can influence the nervous system through various mechanisms:
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Stimulation of the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS): Massage therapy can increase PNS activity, which governs the body's "rest and digest" responses and promotes relaxation and recovery (Diego & Field, 2009).
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Reduction in Stress Hormones: Massage can decrease the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, leading to decreased anxiety and enhanced mood (Field, 2010).
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Increase in Serotonin and Dopamine: Regular massage therapy can also increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with feelings of happiness and well-being (Field, 2005).
Scientific Evidence on Massage and the Nervous System
A growing body of research supports the beneficial effects of massage on the nervous system. For example, a study by Field et al. (2005) demonstrated that massage therapy significantly increased levels of serotonin and dopamine while decreasing cortisol levels.
Diego and Field (2009) found that moderate pressure massage led to a shift from the sympathetic nervous system (which promotes the "fight or flight" response) to the parasympathetic nervous system.
Another study by Hatayama et al. (2008) showed that participants who received a 45-minute massage exhibited significant improvements in mood and perceived stress levels, further supporting the role of massage in modulating the nervous system.
References
- Diego, M. A., & Field, T. (2009). Moderate pressure massage elicits a parasympathetic nervous system response. International Journal of Neuroscience, 119(5), 630-638.
- Field, T. (2010). Touch for socioemotional and physical well-being: A review. Developmental Review, 30(4), 367-383.
- Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., Diego, M., Schanberg, S., & Kuhn, C. (2005). Cortisol decreases and serotonin and dopamine increase following massage therapy. International Journal of Neuroscience, 115(10), 1397-1413.
- Hatayama, T., Kitamura, S., Tamura, C., Nagano, M., & Ohnuki, K. (2008). The facial massage reduced anxiety and negative mood status, and increased sympathetic nervous activity. Biomedical Research, 29(6), 317-320.