
Reduction of stress and anxiety:
A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that massage therapy significantly reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increased levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are neurotransmitters associated with relaxation and well-being.
Research published in the International Journal of Neuroscience showed that massage therapy decreased heart rate and blood pressure, indicating a reduction in the physiological markers of stress.
Pain management and relief:
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Pain Medicine concluded that massage therapy is effective in reducing pain intensity and improving overall pain management.
Studies have demonstrated that massage therapy can reduce pain by activating the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins and the modulation of pain signals in the nervous system.
Studies conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) have shown that massage therapy is beneficial for relieving chronic lower back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis pain.
Mental health benefits:
A review published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology indicated that massage therapy had a positive impact on symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as overall mental well-being. Research has shown that massage therapy can decrease symptoms of anxiety and improve mood by reducing cortisol levels, increasing serotonin and dopamine levels, and promoting relaxation.
Immune system enhancement:
Research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that massage therapy increased the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system's defense against viruses and tumors.
A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies Research indicated that massage can stimulate the production of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells involved in immune function, helping to enhance the immune system's overall effectiveness.
Enhanced sleep quality:
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry demonstrated that massage therapy improved sleep quality in individuals with insomnia by increasing delta brainwaves associated with deep sleep. Research published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing showed that massage therapy improved sleep patterns in children with autism spectrum disorder.
Reduction of symptoms in mental health conditions:
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry indicated that massage therapy had a positive impact on reducing symptoms of depression.
Studies have shown that massage therapy can reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as anxiety and hyperarousal.
Increased relaxation and subjective well-being:
Research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that massage therapy resulted in increased relaxation, reduced heart rate, and lowered blood pressure.
A study published in the Journal of Applied Gerontology showed that massage therapy improved subjective well-being and quality of life in older adults.
The Science Behind Massage
Scientific studies have extensively examined massage therapy and its impact on physiology and psychology. Here are key research findings that illuminate the science behind massage.
The Science Behind Massage
SUBSCRIBE
Subscribe to be updated about latest news and blog posts and to follow what is happening in a magical land of Thailand