Massage therapy, a long-established practice dating back thousands of years, offers an array of physiological and psychological benefits. A core function of this healing modality is its potential to calm the nervous system, bringing about a sense of tranquility and balance. This article reviews the current scientific literature investigating the effects of regular, monthly massages on the nervous system.
The Nervous System: A Brief Overview
The nervous system, comprising the central and peripheral systems, is a complex network that regulates bodily functions and responses to external stimuli. A key component of this network is the autonomic nervous system (ANS), further divided into the sympathetic (responsible for 'fight or flight' responses) and parasympathetic (overseeing 'rest and digest' functions) systems (Porges, 2007). The balance between these two systems is crucial for our physical and emotional well-being.
Massage Therapy and the Autonomic Nervous System
Research has demonstrated that massage therapy can significantly impact the autonomic nervous system. A study conducted by Diego and Field (2009) showed that moderate-pressure massage can stimulate the parasympathetic (rest and digest) response, effectively calming the nervous system. This study suggests that regular, monthly massages may support sustained balance within the ANS, promoting a state of rest and recovery. (Read more...)
Massage, Stress Hormones, and the Nervous System
Stress, whether physical or psychological, triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone associated with the sympathetic nervous system's 'fight or flight' response. A study by Field, Hernandez-Reif, Diego, Schanberg, & Kuhn (2005) found that bi-weekly massages for a month led to a significant decrease in cortisol levels. This reduction indicates that regular massage therapy can help manage stress responses and foster a more balanced, calmer state. (Read more...)
Massage and Neurotransmitters
Massage therapy has also been linked to changes in the levels of certain neurotransmitters that regulate mood and stress responses. Serotonin and dopamine, both associated with feelings of happiness and relaxation, have been found to increase following massage therapy (Field et al., 2005). By stimulating the release of these 'feel-good' neurotransmitters, monthly massages can contribute to a calmer, more balanced nervous system. (Read more...)
In conclusion, current research strongly supports the role of regular, monthly massage in calming the nervous system. This effect is likely due to a combination of factors, including modulation of the autonomic nervous system, reduction of stress hormone levels, and increased production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters.
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., 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.
- Porges, S. W. (2007). The polyvagal perspective. Biological Psychology, 74(2), 116-143.