Heart rate, the number of times the heart beats per minute, is a vital sign often used to gauge general health and fitness levels. It's influenced by various factors, including physical activity, stress, and overall health status. Massage therapy can influence heart rate, primarily by promoting relaxation and stress reduction, which in turn can lead to a slower and more regulated heart rate (Field, 2010).
How Does Massage Therapy Influence Heart Rate?
The impact of massage therapy on heart rate is thought to occur through various mechanisms:
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Stimulation of the Parasympathetic Nervous System: As discussed earlier, massage therapy can stimulate the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), which is responsible for the body's 'rest and digest' functions. When the PNS is activated, it causes a decrease in heart rate, among other physiological responses (Diego & Field, 2009).
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Reduction of Stress Hormone Levels: Massage therapy can help to reduce the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. High cortisol levels can increase heart rate, so by reducing cortisol levels, massage therapy may help to lower heart rate (Field, 2010).
Scientific Evidence on Massage Therapy and Heart Rate
Several studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of massage therapy on heart rate. A study by Diego and Field (2009) found that participants who received a moderate-pressure massage showed significant reductions in heart rate compared to a control group.
In a different study by Hatayama et al. (2008), participants received a 45-minute massage, which resulted in decreased heart rate and sympathetic nervous activity, suggesting that massage therapy can contribute to a relaxed state and slower heart rate.
Further, a study by Delaney et al. (2002) found that a 30-minute session of Swedish massage resulted in significant decreases in heart rate among hypertensive women. These findings suggest that massage therapy can be an effective intervention for managing heart rate, particularly in individuals experiencing hypertension.
References
- Delaney, J. P., Leong, K. S., Watkins, A., & Brodie, D. (2002). The short-term effects of myofascial trigger point massage therapy on cardiac autonomic tone in healthy subjects. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 37(4), 364-371.
- 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.
- 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.