When it comes to stress relief, massage is one of the most effective tools available. Massage has been shown to lower heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels. Serotonin and dopamine are also released during massage, which can further reduce stress levels.
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that cortisol (stress hormone) decreases and the production of serotonin and dopamine (feel-good hormones) increases following massage therapy.
Another study by the Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, showed weekly 15-min chair massages reduced stress-related symptoms in nurses.