The Science Behind Massage Pressure: Releasing Stress and Feeling Good
Massage is certainly a luxurious, pampering, relaxing therapy treatment when you have one here. However, there is much more to it than simply enjoying the wonderful wellbeing boost it can bring. There are a number of scientific studies that offer lots of evidence pointing to ability massage can have in relieving stress and muscle tension that is associated with this common issue. Also, when it comes to the science behind the correct use of massage pressure, research says light, medium and deep pressure massage can have significant and different effects on feel-good hormone release. Thus, getting the pressure right for you personally can have a good balancing effect on your body and your mind. Call or text today to book your Relaxing Massage 07979 814 388
Massage Can Help Relieve Stress Hormones
Stress is a natural thing that happens to us all. It is how humans have stayed alive in that face of numerous dangers to their life over millennia. One of the things that happens during a stressful situation (a lion appears on the horizon or, more commonly today, you have to break hard to avoid a cat in the road) is a hormone called cortisol is released by your adrenal glands. Cortisol is also known as one of the stress hormones. It raises your blood sugar level, so you are ready for any required emergency action.
Reduce Cortisol by Relaxing Here
Now, this cortisol is fine in a life threating situation but, if it becomes a regular occurrence, it can be very damaging. So, we need a therapy that can help reduce cortisol production and thus reduce stress. That is what Schanberg S et al (2009) study tells us happens during massage. Cortisol is reduced and feel-good hormones are released as well. This is a win win effect if I ever heard of one. Also Labrique-Walusis F et al (2010) tells us there are many other studies saying massage directly effects health positively and can lower peoples perceived stress level. Time for a massage I think! Call 07979 814388 to book in today!
Massage Time - Release More Feel-Good Hormones Today
The feel-good hormones are named after exactly what they do to humans. That being make you feel good. These hormones include dopamine, serotonin, endorphins and oxytocin. One study by Field T (2010) found that participants who received massage experienced a decreases in heart rate, lower blood pressure, less cortisol and an increase of oxytocin. There are many other studies which also conclude massage can aid decreases in the stress hormone like cortisol and increase our feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine. When this happens to us the hormonal shift can help us relax, aid reduced anxiety and lift your mood too.
How Does it Work According to Science?
The question we are left with here is how does a massage touch and gentle pressure achieve such profound results? The answer lies in the way our body’s systems respond to touch. When the skin’s receptors detect pressure, they send signals to the brain, activating the parasympathetic nervous system. This system is responsible for the body’s rest and digest response, helping to reduce heart rate, lower blood pressure, and increase overall relaxation. So, touch is good but, massage is probably the best type of touch there is available.
Stress Hormones Reduce Feel-Good Hormones Increase Making You Feel Great
In addition to a possible reduction in stress hormones, a good pressure massage can also stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. These chemicals not only provide immediate relief from muscle tension and pain but can also create a sense of euphoria and wellbeing. So what you can end up with is an overall feeling of wellbeing and uplift to your spirit.
So, even if you prefer a lighter touch during your massage session, rest assured that the science behind massage pressure is working to release stress and tension from your body, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and at ease. Book in today by calling 07979 814388
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6371989/
SCHANBERG S et al (2009) CORTISOL DECREASES AND SEROTONIN AND DOPAMINE INCREASE FOLLOWING MASSAGE THERAPY [online] available at https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00207450590956459 last access 02/01/2024
Labrique-Walusis F et al (2010) Massage Therapy for Stress Management
Implications for Nursing Practice [online] available at https://journals.lww.com/orthopaedicnursing/abstract/2010/07000/massage_therapy_for_stress_management_.9.aspx last access 29/12/2023
Field T (2010) Touch for socioemotional and physical well-being: A review [online] available at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0273229711000025 last acess 08/01/2024
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S156607021000127X
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