Can massage therapy positively shift the body’s chemistry?
Research across many conditions and stressors found consistent patterns including lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and higher serotonin and dopamine (mood-boosting neurotransmitters).
Studies looked at issues like depression and pain syndromes, autoimmune conditions (including asthma and chronic fatigue), immune-related conditions (including HIV and breast cancer), and stress tied to work, aging, and pregnancy.
When cortisol was measured in saliva or urine, it dropped by an average of 31%.
When serotonin and dopamine were measured, they rose by about 28% and 31%.
Overall, the findings suggest massage can reduce stress while also supporting mood and energy.
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