logo
AAT Bioquest

What effect does massage have on the nervous system?

Posted December 6, 2023


Answer

Massage affects the nervous system positively by: 

  • Activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety
  • Increasing the production of endorphins, which reduce feelings of pain and enhance mood
  • Reducing cortisol levels, thereby lowering stress and anxiety and promoting a sense of relaxation
  • Boosting oxytocin levels, which helps lower anxiety levels and promote feelings of calm and connection with others
  • Increasing blood flow and reducing pressure on the nerves, thereby improving nerve function  
Additional resources

The Effects of Heat and Massage Application on Autonomic Nervous System

DiIC18(3)-DS [1,1-Dioctadecyl-3,3,3,3-tetramethylindocarbocyanine-5,5-disulfonic acid]

MM 4-64 [N-(3-Triethylammoniumpropyl)-4-(6-(4-(diethylamino)phenyl)hexatrienyl)pyridinium dibromide]