How Massage Can Help With Depression, Anxiety & Stress

Stress & anxiety are inescapable parts of our lives. Especially with everything that has happened in the past year. With so many people losing their jobs, homes, and even their loved ones, life has become more stressful for everyone. Not to mention we are still living amid a pandemic. According to The American Institute of Stress, about 77% of people experience stress that affects their physical health. Also, 73 percent of people have reported having stress that directly impacts their mental health. It is impossible to eliminate all the stress and anxiety we may feel on a day-to-day basis. Some people might experience minor symptoms when facing a challenging or stressful situation. Some might have more severe, long-lasting symptoms that impact their daily life, including:

• feelings of panic, fear, or worry

• restlessness

• difficulty concentrating

• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

• fatigue

• irritability

• nausea, headaches, or digestive concerns

• feeling a lack of control

• muscle tension

While a good massage session can open up all the knots in your body, it can provide various other physical and mental benefits. Nurturing touch can help fulfill the need for human connection, such as the soothing one we experience at birth. Massages are often considered hour-long hugs that provide you with a nurturing, safe place to relax your body and mind. A 60-minute massage can significantly improve your mental health. Cortisol is a hormone that is produced in response to stress. The increased production of Cortisol has been linked with the decreased production of serotonin and dopamine, which are often referred to as the body’s “happy hormones.” A study conducted by the Touch Research Institutes of the University of Miami found that a 60-minute massage can decrease the production of Cortisol by 31% and increase the production of serotonin and dopamine by 28%. This study was conducted on a variety of cases, including individuals who suffered from depression, including sexual abuse and eating disorders. The study recorded decreased stress levels among individuals stressed about their job, aging, and pregnancy.

In conclusion, a relaxing massage session can help temporarily manage symptoms of anxiety and stress. Still, there’s not enough evidence to support its use as a treatment for ongoing anxiety. Nonetheless, receiving a massage in instances where you’re feeling stressed or anxious can help. Make sure to keep up with any other treatments recommended by your doctor. Reach out to your doctor or a therapist if your symptoms become more severe or start interfering with your day-to-day life.