The Vagus Nerve and Massage: How Touch Impacts Stress & Digestion

When we think about massage therapy, most of us picture muscle relief and relaxation. But did you know that massage can also influence your nervous system in powerful ways—especially through a key player called the vagus nerve?

What Is the Vagus Nerve?

The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body. It runs from your brainstem all the way down through your neck, chest, and abdomen—touching major organs like the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. It's the main highway for the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls your body's rest-and-digest mode.

In other words: when your vagus nerve is activated, your body slows down, calms down, and starts to heal.

How Massage Stimulates the Vagus Nerve

Massage therapy—especially techniques that include gentle pressure, diaphragmatic breathing, or neck and cranial work—can stimulate the vagus nerve, helping to:

• Lower stress hormones like cortisol

• Slow your heart rate and promote calm

• Improve digestion by activating gut motility

• Enhance mood by triggering the release of serotonin and oxytocin

It’s no coincidence that people often leave a massage feeling more grounded, centered, and even... hungry. That’s your parasympathetic system kicking back in.

The Science of Soothing Touch

This isn't just feel-good theory—it’s backed by research. Studies have shown that therapeutic touch can increase vagal tone, reduce inflammation, and support emotional regulation. In short, massage doesn’t just feel relaxing—it’s nervous system medicine.

At Defiance PT & Wellness

We believe healing isn't just physical—it’s neurological. Whether you’re dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, gut issues, or burnout, our massage therapy team tailors sessions to support the whole you—including your nervous system.