As the US researchers claim effect of massage is proportionate to the effects of relaxing, while deep breathing or listening to soothing music.

Massage as the experts claim, primarily aims in treating soft tissues rather than relaxation. On the other hand relaxation therapy eases the brain out of stress and strain.

The study involving 68 people, reported that Depression and Anxiety concentrated on individuals create generalised anxiety disorder, a situation which involves excessive worry that makes life cumbersome.

The respondents were divided in three groups. While the first one was offered massage, other two had a relaxation therapy (breathing deeply while lying down) or thermotherapy (having their arms and legs wrapped up intermittently with heating pads and warm towels). Also, the groups were offered therapies in presence of soothing music. Almost similar effects were observed in all three groups after three months.

Dr. Karen Sherman from the Seattle based Group Health Centre for Health Studies was astonished to see the results. As per her, the survey indicated that benefits accruing from massage may be because of a generalised relaxation response.