Dr. Mary Orff and Mark Fahlbeck: The physiological effects of massage

Today, people are constantly on the go, many juggling work, school and family activities and obligations. Couple that with the other pressures surrounding us, and it is clear why some level of stress is prevalent in us all. Stress can take a toll on the body, and the need for relaxation is as important as ever. One technique that can help with the relaxation of the mind and body is massage therapy.

In the right hands, a good massage can relax tight muscles and relieve stress in the body. But why is this the case? Massage effects change in the physiology of the body. Physiology describes the function and activity of a living organism. All the organs and tissues of the body work together to maintain health. Massage can help to reverse unwanted negative physiological responses that arise from physical strain on the body; it can also relieve mental stressors that cause physical reactions. When expertly applied, massage therapy can positively affect every body system we have.