How does massage therapy contribute to stress reduction?

Massage therapy contributes to stress reduction primarily by stimulating the autonomic nervous system, particularly the parasympathetic branch. When massage is applied, it encourages relaxation and calms the body’s stress response. This activation triggers physiological changes such as reduced heart rate, lowered blood pressure, and decreased cortisol levels (the stress hormone), all of which contribute to an overall sense of well-being and relaxation.

The other options do not directly relate to the core mechanism of stress relief through massage. Enhancing muscle strength and endurance typically pertains more to physical exercise rather than the effects of massage. Increasing metabolic rate is usually associated with physical activity rather than the calming, restorative effects provided by massage therapy. Lastly, while promoting exercise regimens is beneficial for overall health and can indirectly help manage stress, it does not pertain directly to how massage works to diminish stress levels specifically.