The emotional balance that massage provides can be just as important as the physical touch. Many of us know that we feel more relaxed after massage, but you may not know all the reasons. The lights are low, the music is soft and relaxing, and someone is working out your sore muscles. But what else is going on in in your body? There is more than you think happening that makes you feel so great after a massage!
Massage decreases cortisol levels in the body which are caused by stress. High cortisol levels in the body lead to weight gain in the midsection and can lower the immune system and stress the cardiovascular system. This will put a low level, but constant stress on the body over long periods of time. A 60-minute massage can lower cortisol levels by as much as 30%.
Behind the wide range of both physical and mental reactions to stress are several hormones that are in charge of adding fuel to the fire of stress. Two of these are adrenaline and norepinephrine. These, along with cortisol, are known as your fight or flight hormones. Research has shown that massage has a direct impact on lowering these hormones and influencing a calmer state.
On the positive side, you have your feel-good hormones. These are dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. These are released during a massage as well. Endorphins are the body’s natural feel-good chemical, and serotonin is known as the happy hormone. As a bonus, serotonin also helps you sleep better and controls your appetite.
During a massage, the hormone oxytocin gets a boost as well. This hormone is known to promote calming when it is released to the brain. It also has been shown to encourage positive social behavior. This sounds like a great reason for a massage!
So, as you can see, there are many hidden reasons that massage is great for stress relief! We have so many stressors in our lives right now that we all need a great massage!
-Emily,Massage Therapist