Massage is much more than a feel good rub down. The effects of massage on the body are numerous, and are on every level of bodily function. While the basic psychological effects are very apperent....i.e. reduced stress and anxiety, increase clarity, and promote a general relaxation response..through activation of the parasympathetic nervous system...endorphines!...while this is an amazing benifit....the physical benifits far outweigh these.

From the inside out..
Skeletal ...movement of the joints through daily activity...or PROM through massage, stimulates production of synovial fluid and incourages mineral retention.
Nervous and endocrine......stimulation of sensory receptors in the skin enhance body awareness and plays a huge role in muscle relaxation and pain reduction. Proprioceptors in muscles can be activated to effect relaxation and elongation. The PNS is stimulated and relaxation response kicks in....and endorphins are released.
Cardio......massage increase circulation, reduce blood pressure and heart rate, and enhanced venous return
Lymphatic......Improve immune function thru stress reduction and increased lymph flow
Respiratory.....those with respritory problems benifit by releasing respiration muscles, encouraging diaphragmatic release and rib cage expansion
Digestive, Urinary, Reproductive.....all are enhanced or improved with increased circulation and or relaxation...let me know if you want specifics
Integument......as i said before, stimulation of sensory receptors in your skin have a general relaxation or pain reduction response, but also....certain tecniques on scars during the maturation phase break adhesions to underlying tissues allowing for reduced scar thickness.
Muscular system.....Under activity of muscles allows for waste buildup. without the upming of the muscles, metabolic waste are not elimnated. Over activity is kind of the same, too much metabolic waste is present, not because of insuffecient pumping, but because of too much production. Massage given immediately after strenuous activity, flushes metabolic waste, brings oxygen and nutrients back to the area and enhances tissue repair. And then there is the obvious..hypertonic muscles. I have mentioned the PNS and this does play a role in the relaxation of hypertonic muscles, but manual techniques like muscle approximation, or stimulation of the golgi tendon are also wonderful tools for promoting muscle relaxation.
Connective tissue......its everywhere, surrounding every bone, muscle and organ. Connective tissue is thixotropic....meaning it is pliable when mobile and firm when immobile. Massage can breakdown these facial adhesions allowing for improved circulation, skeletal alignment, and ROM of soft tissues.

Very informative. Thank you.