Massage is one of the most ancient holistic healing traditions. There are many ancient cultures that have utilized it, including Ancient Greeks and Egyptians as along with Indians and Medieval Europeans. It has been utilized to treat a variety of ailments

Studies have shown that regular massage releases chemicals in the brain that cause people to feel more calm and relaxed. A recent study on the effects of massage on the nervous system has shown that it increases the release of two neurotransmitters in the brain, GABA and glutamate. These chemicals are both responsible for relaxation, anxiety reduction and mood improvement. The rise in serotonin, the chemical which regulates brain's mood, was discovered by the same study.

Another study performed on the effects of massage on anxiety revealed that it heightened trait anxiety (a fear of social situations) However, only the females. The effects of massage on anxiety was not apparent in males. The study concluded that the impact of massage on anxiety is not solely confined to the nervous system, as it can also affect the skin. It was concluded that enhanced relaxation and stimulation of the soft tissue during massage boost the "feel good" chemicals within the brain and triggers immediate release of stress hormones.

The lymphatic system too is affected by massage. The lymphatic system is responsible for transporting unwanted substances out of the body. This doubles the benefits. The lymphatic system aids in the elimination of the waste materials through the blood. Secondly, the lymphatic system aids in restoring the body's balance of chemicals eliminating toxins which tend to cause an imbalance in chemical levels.

One recent study that was published in the Journal of Applied Physiology showed the positive effects of massage on anxiety. The study was conducted in two groups. participants were treated with either an cold compress or massage. One group showed an increase in heart rate; the other did not. The research concluded that the increase in heart rate was due to cortisol, a stress hormone, being increased and the lower levels of endorphin were due to the lower serotonin levels.

Massage therapists are of the opinion that massage also has an effect directly on the skin. They believe that the process of kneading and rubbing helps to dissolve dry, dead skin cells and draws the skin's layers closer the surface. The effect it has on the skin has been called a "depersonalization effect" by a variety of massage therapists, and it has been postulated that the act of massage may also help reduce the anxiety people have when faced with stressful situations, such as job interviews and social gatherings.

Massage therapy's effects on sleeping better hasn't been extensively researched, but one theory is built on the "sleep hygiene effect." It is believed that if you are able to sleep better, the body's hormones are less which is a stress hormon. Another theory is that if you are able to sleep better, you can awake feeling less stressed out, and you will consequently be more attentive to the environment around you. The effect that massage therapy has on the body may contribute to the findings seen in the studies.

Massage therapy can be beneficial if have trouble sleeping at night or are feeling less tired than you normally do. Massage therapy's benefits for the nervous system and digestive system are well documented. There are definite indications that massage may benefit the circulatory system and nervous system. Regular massage therapy has allowed many people get a restful sleep and feel relaxed and rejuvenated after a tiring day at school or work.