Rhythmical massage improves autonomic nervous system function: a single-blind randomised controlled trial

CONCLUSION RMT causes specific and marked stimulation of the autonomic nervous system. Use of a medicinal aromatic oil had only a temporary effect on HRV, indicating that the RM causes the most relevant long-term effect. The effect is relatively specific, as the physiological effects seen in the group of subjects who received only SM were considerably less pronounced.
Source: Journal of Integrative Medicine - Category: Complementary Medicine Source Type: research