Otago Polytechnic Massage Therapy staff and students are offering free massages as part of Mental Health Awareness Week (23-29 September).

Research indicates that massage increases “happiness hormones” (oxytocin and serotonin) and decreases “stress hormones” (norepinephrine and cortisol).  Elevated levels of stress hormones have been linked to anxiety, depression, chronic pain, high blood pressure, digestive trouble, immunosuppression and autoimmune conditions. 

“While massage can’t be considered a treatment for most of these conditions, regular massage can reduce our stress levels, so could be considered a preventative measure,” says David McQuillan, Senior Lecturer, Massage Therapy, Otago Polytechnic.

“Serotonin not only helps improve mood but also aids digestion, memory and sleep; oxytocin helps us to feel less stressed, more empathetic and helps to support healthy relationships.” 

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Otago Polytechnic Massage Therapy students will also offer free massages (between 3pm-4.30pm) at the Fiveways expo at the Octagon Club on Friday, 27 September.

Otago Polytechnic’s student massage clinic has a limited number of appointment times on Wednesday 25 September. To book an appointment, email david.mcquillan@op.ac.nz, stating your name, cell phone, and reasons for wanting to receive a massage for mental health. This information will be strictly confidential.

Read more about our Massage Therapy programme