Stimulation of the Nervous System Through Massage Therapy
The nervous system, which includes the central and peripheral nervous systems, plays a crucial role in coordinating our actions, sensations, and thoughts. Massage therapy can exert a significant influence on the nervous system, contributing to relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being (Field, 2010).
How Does Massage Therapy Stimulate the Nervous System?
Massage therapy can stimulate the nervous system via several key mechanisms:
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Promotion of Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) Activity: The PNS, often referred to as the 'rest and digest' system, is activated during a massage session. This activation can promote relaxation and recovery, leading to slower heart rate, slower breathing, and muscle relaxation (Diego & Field, 2009).
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Reduction of Stress Hormones: By decreasing cortisol levels, a hormone linked with stress, massage therapy can influence the nervous system to reduce anxiety and improve mood (Field, 2010).
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Boosting 'Feel Good' Neurotransmitters: Regular massage therapy can increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with happiness and well-being. These neurochemical changes can stimulate the nervous system and enhance mood (Field et al., 2005).
Scientific Evidence on Massage and the Nervous System
Several research studies support the positive impact of massage on the nervous system. A study by Field et al. (2005) revealed that massage therapy significantly increased levels of serotonin and dopamine while decreasing cortisol levels, suggesting an overall beneficial impact on the nervous system.
A study by Diego and Field (2009) found that moderate pressure massage led to a shift from the sympathetic nervous system (associated with the 'fight or flight' response) to the parasympathetic nervous system, implying a relaxation response.
Furthermore, a study by Hatayama et al. (2008) showed that after a 45-minute massage, participants demonstrated significant improvements in mood and perceived stress levels, reinforcing 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.