The relaxation response is the involuntary and predictable response of the nervous system to massage techniques and touch.
Mechanical responses are the physical effects that occur in the body when the pressure is applied to the soft tissues.
Together these responses can produce physical and emotional benefits. Well to know the effectiveness of massage therapy, it is vital for each one of us to know what exactly are the relaxation responses and mechanical responses.

What are the relaxation responses?

When you’re into a massage process, a caring and a safe touch is an invitation to relax. This touch helps you relieve pain and along with it produces a relaxation response. The relaxation response is a state in which:

Your heart and breathing rate slow down,
Blood pressure goes down,
The production of your stress hormones decreases, and
Your muscles relax.
The relaxation response also seems to increase the available level of serotonin (a chemical in a human’s body) that positively affects the emotions and thoughts. Such a response may decrease the physical effects of stress and reduce the risks associated with stress including hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, anxiety, insomnia, digestive disorders and psychological issues etc.

What are mechanical responses?

There are two major physical effects of manipulation in massage in Balmain. They are:

Increase in blood and lymph circulation
Relaxation and normalization of the soft tissue which releases nerves and deeper connective tissues.