How does massage therapy reduce stress?

Massage can help relax tight and painful muscles, improve range of motion in the joints, enhance circulation and lower stress levels. Stress is considered a risk factor for many chronic diseases, and can make your symptoms worse. Since there are many different massage therapies available, it may require some trial and error to find the right therapist and massage technique to reduce your stress level.

Techniques

Massage therapy encompasses many techniques. With some, the client undresses and is covered with sheets during the session, while with others the client remains clothed. The massage therapist may use her hands, elbows or feet to administer the treatment. According to the Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the main forms of massage include Swedish, deep tissue, sports, reflexology and trigger point. Some forms of massage use oils and others use warm stones to release tension and promote relaxation. Talk to several massage therapists about their specific type of massage and how it may reduce your stress.