What are the effects of massage?

• A. Promotes relaxation
• B. Reduces digestion efficiency
• C. Causes dehydration
• D. Increases sleep apnea

Answer: (A)

Massage promotes relaxation by dampening the body's stress response and boosting the parasympathetic nervous system. Through manual work on soft tissues, it reduces muscle tension, lowers heart rate and blood pressure, and can decrease cortisol levels, which together create a calming and soothing state. This relaxation often leads to better sleep, reduced anxiety, and an overall sense of well-being.

The other options don’t align with typical massage effects. Massage is not known to reduce digestion efficiency; in fact, by promoting a relaxed state, it can support digestive function. It does not cause dehydration; staying hydrated is important, but massage itself isn’t dehydration-inducing. It also does not increase sleep apnea; while it may improve sleep quality for some, it doesn’t worsen sleep apnea.