Which physiological response can result from a massage?

Massage therapy often leads to a variety of physiological responses, one of the most notable being a decreased heart rate and an overall relaxation response. This is primarily due to the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's rest and digest functions. When a person receives a massage, it can lead to a state of relaxation that calms the nervous system, thus lowering the heart rate.

Additionally, massage promotes the release of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which can contribute to feelings of well-being and relaxation. The systematic application of pressure and manipulation of soft tissue encourages blood circulation and can help alleviate psychological stress.

In contrast, responses like increased heart rate or heightened alertness are generally associated with stress or physical activity, not relaxation. Similarly, increased muscle tension would be counterproductive to the goals of massage therapy, which typically aims for muscle relaxation. Enhanced breathing rates can occur during physical exertion, but the primary goal of massage is usually to induce a state of calm, leading to deeper, slower breathing patterns instead. Therefore, the option regarding decreased heart rate and the relaxation response accurately reflects the intended physiological benefits of massage therapy.