Massage therapies play an important role in management of chronic stress, release of muscular tension and coiling up of muscles. It helps increase flexibility, improve blood flow & oxygen supply, and induce physical lightness. The slow, deep breathing recommended in these sessions further heightens the relaxation. Head massage, facials, massages with some healing aromatic oils, body wraps and scrubs help one feel relaxed, destressed and even lighter.

A study on Massage therapy for stress management: implications for nursing practice Published in National Library of Medicine in May 2010- an official website of United States government concluded that :Unresolved stress has been shown to have numerous adverse effects on the body. A review of the literature has revealed 2 major themes: (1) research that argues that massage has a direct relationship with positive health outcomes and (2) research that stresses that although there are little or no measurable physiological changes that occur from massage, patients’ perceptions of stress and anxiety were significantly reduced. The simple act of touch-focused care, even a simple 5-min hand or foot massage, can be useful in lowering a patient’s perceived level of stress. Further research is necessary on the benefits and risks of implementing massage therapy in the hospital setting.