Effects of massage on stress and anxiety.

Recent research supports the psychological benefits of massage on sporting and non-sporting populations. A report by Zadkhosh et al (2015) showed massage reduced perceived levels of stress and anxiety. In addition, cortisol (the primary stress hormone) and blood pressure became reduced, cortisol by an average of 31%. Simultaneously, dopamine, the pleasure and reward anticipation hormone (‘the feel-good hormone’) and serotonin (a major mood regulator hormone) increased, dopamine by an average of 31% and serotonin by an average of 28%.

Other studies (Leivadi et al., 1999. Micklewright et al., 2005) have demonstrated improved mood, reduction in nervous tension and improved concentration.

Once again massage has demonstrated its value as a positive treatment for both physiological AND psychological concerns.