Healing Through Nervous System Co-Regulation

The human body possesses an extraordinary capacity for self-healing. However, this process relies on the healthy functioning of our nervous system, which governs our physiological responses and maintains our body’s internal balance (homeostasis) through the regulation of sympathetic and parasympathetic states. When our nervous system becomes dysregulated—whether from chronic stress, trauma, or injury—we shift into sympathetic overdrive and our body’s ability to heal is compromised.

Massage therapy, through intentional touch and presence, offers a powerful avenue for restoring nervous system regulation. CNS co-regulation is the biological process by which two human nervous systems synchronize, supporting one another in returning to a state of safety and balance.

Co-regulation is a fundamental aspect of human physiology. From infancy, our nervous systems rely on connection with others to establish safety and stability. This capacity (rather, this need) persists throughout our lives. When a massage therapist engages in present, intentional touch, their regulated nervous system offers a template of calm for the client’s body to mirror. This phenomenon is facilitated by the vagus nerve and initiates a cascade of healing effects throughout the body, beginning with a reduction in cortisol levels and the release of beneficial neurotransmitters such as oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine.

As parasympathetic dominance takes hold, blood vessels dilate, increasing nutrient and oxygen delivery to tissues. This accelerates cellular repair and reduces pain. Hyper-vigilant and dissociative mental states are also brought into balance through the power of nervous system co-regulation and the equilibrium of neurotransmitter release that is restored via therapeutic touch.

By returning our bodies to homeostasis, we optimize its ability to heal both physically and mentally. Massage therapists hold a unique position in society to offer our communities the most evolutionarily powerful agent for restoring homeostasis: co-regulation.

“Co-regulation is a lifelong need. A child is born with a sympathetic nervous system. Parasympathetic regulation happens through the mother. Because of its evolutionary ties, human to human co-regulation is the most powerful calming agent.” -Gabor Mate