A therapist who prioritizes a client's sense of safety and autonomy through clear communication, boundary setting, and client empowerment throughout the session. This can help reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms like hypervigilance by re-establishing a sense of physical presence and promoting relaxation. The Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a "rest and digest" state, lowering stress hormones like cortisol and increasing feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine. Releases physical tension: Traumatic experiences can cause chronic muscle tension and stress. Massage techniques can help release this stored tension in muscles, fascia, and connective tissues. Re-establishes mind-body connection: Survivors may disconnect from their bodies as a protective response. Trauma massage gently restores awareness of the body, helping clients reclaim a sense of physical connection and presence. Calming the nervous system and releasing physical tension, this therapy can help alleviate symptoms like anxiety, hypervigilance, and exaggerated startle responses.