HOW MASSAGE ASSISTS WITH NERVOUS SYSTEM RESET

In a world of non-stop information, the relentless flow of data and interruption creates an occurrence known as “information overload” or “digital overload,” which can lead to stress, anxiety, and decision paralysis. Our brains have a limited capacity to process information, and when that limit is exceeded, cognitive function and well-being suffer. 

HOW DOES THIS HAPPEN

Ongoing stress causes the reticular activating system (RAS) to become overactive, leading to a state of heightened arousal, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. This occurs because the RAS, a network of neurons in the brainstem, plays a critical role as gatekeeper, filtering what’s important to us from unnecessary stuff. At the same time the RAS is sending signals to the hypothalamus which triggers the pituitary gland to send hormones to the adrenal glands that then flood the system with cortisol.

Critically important information and this flood of digital overload stimulates our vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the main communication highway between your brain and your body.  When the vagus nerve is stimulated, it in turn activates our sympathetic nervous system, our “fight or flight” response. Leaving us hyper focused far too often and for far too long resulting in a negative consequence on our health.  High levels of cortisol can, over time, cause high blood pressure, weight gain and bone loss.

Both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are vital to our health and survival. However, for our bodies to live with optimal health, homeostasis and proper function for as long as possible, there must be a balance between the two. 

HOW MASSAGE CAN HELP

Massage promotes relaxation resulting in a calm body and mind.  This helps create a healthy parasympathetic nervous system and vagus nerve, which in turn can improve attention, reduce stress and regulate sleep, all functions associated with the RAS. By activating the parasympathetic ‘rest and digest’ response, massage can counteract the “fight or flight” response, leading to an overall increase in well-being.  

Massage promotes the release of beneficial neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and acetylcholine, which supports brain health and overall well-being.

HOMEOSTASIS

The definition: “Homeostasis is the body’s way of coming back into a state of equilibrium and health” this is a simplified but functionally accurate summary. A more complete definition specifies that homeostasis is an automatic, self-regulating process that actively maintains a stable, relatively constant internal environment despite changes in the external world. Once the body relaxes and the mind calms down, homeostasis can follow.  Book a massage and let your nervous system regulate and reset.

 

For 25 years, Kneaded Energy has been built on a foundation of community and client-first service. Our story begins with a belief that became our mission, one that guides everything we do: “Our answer is YES, and we’ll figure out the details.”

This commitment was born from the partnership of Bill and Shelley, who met and connected over a shared passion for massage therapy at the Body Therapy Institute in 1998. Since opening Kneaded Energy Professional Practice and KE Massage School, they’ve made it their life’s work to create an exceptional client experience. We’re proud to serve the North Carolina community and grateful for the clients who continue to choose us. We have 64 classes of graduates from our massage program all over the Triad, any of us can serve you and your massage needs.

Programs for 2026

Kneaded Energy, Professional Practice

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Kneaded Energy School of Massage

Professional Massage Therapy Diploma Program, 750 hours, full or part time

Starts February 18, 2026, meets Wed-Fri 9am-4pm

Starts August 24, 2026, Day meets Mon-Wed 9am-4pm, Eve Mon-Thurs 6-9pm