The Science Behind Massage: How Touch Therapy Affects the Brain and Body

Massage therapy does more than ease sore muscles — it has a measurable effect on the brain and body. Scientific studies show that massage helps lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase serotonin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters responsible for feeling good.

When you book a relaxing massage at home, your body isn’t just relaxing — it’s healing. Gentle pressure stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, calming the mind and supporting better sleep, digestion, and immune function.

A 2020 meta-analysis published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that massage significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults. Researchers attributed this to the activation of pressure receptors and the subsequent hormonal responses that support mood regulation.

Different types of massage influence the nervous system in different ways. A Swedish massage focuses on relaxation and blood flow, ideal for reducing stress and improving sleep. A Deep Tissue Massage, on the other hand, addresses chronic tension, helping manage pain while stimulating the release of endorphins.

Massage also plays a role in improving body awareness and reconnecting with physical sensations — important for those recovering from trauma or managing chronic stress. Even just 30 minutes of focused touch has been shown to lower heart rate and blood pressure.

In a city as fast-paced as London, these physiological benefits are more relevant than ever. When you opt for an at-home massage through Secret Spa, you're investing in both body and mind — without leaving your front door.