Massage, Hormones and Digestion
Massage can have a much deeper effect on the body than just the soft tissues of the muscles or the hard tissue of the bones. It can also have a profound effect on the internal tissues of the organs. This includes the stomach, which is responsible for exocrine functions, and the pancreas, which is responsible for endocrine functions. These functions work together to produce hormones that regulate digestion and metabolism.
The endocrine system is a network of organs responsible for secreting hormones that signal various body functions. Epinephrine and Norepinephrine increase heart rate, blood flow to muscles and overall energy levels in the body. Cortisol acts to regulate blood sugar, blood pressure and muscle strength. When this hormone is secreted it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Erythropoietin stimulates red blood cell production and these cells are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. At times, the body’s production of these hormones can dip below or spike above ideal levels. During massage, as the brain sends a relaxation response throughout the body, these hormone levels are given time to regain homeostasis and create a sense of balance in the body.
Secondary to this response, during relaxation the body’s release of endorphins increases. Endorphins can give a feeling of euphoria and inhibit pain sensations. The level of this release varies from person to person meaning that each massage experience is unique to the individual. The increase in these levels has a powerful effect in improving mood and decreasing stress levels.
The primary function of the digestive system is to remove waste from the body. As food passes through the various areas of the digestive tract, the body absorbs nutrients, water and electrolytes leaving anything that is unneeded to pass out of the body. At times, this system can become sluggish and need assistance to keep things moving. Direct massage on the abdominal region encourages the peristaltic action (muscular squeezing that moves food through the digestive tract) and stimulates the nerves which control intestinal movement. Conversely, when the peristaltic action is working too fast, massage can calm this natural response and return bowel function to a normal pace.
During digestion, the organs of the endocrine system are working to secrete hormones that stimulate the various needed responses. Ghrelin signals the brain that it’s time to eat, gastrin releases acid in the stomach and small intestine to break down food, and insulin and glucagon are released in the small intestine to break down and store sugars absorbed from digested food. Using massage to stimulate or slow the pace of digestion, influences how and when these hormones are released. It has often been asserted that massage “cleanses the body of toxins.” In reality, the body is already designed to save what is needed and dispose of what isn’t, massage is simply supporting and encouraging the body’s natural processes.
