Therapeutic massage involves manually manipulating the soft tissues of the body through techniques like effleurage, petrissage, vibration and friction to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, and promote relaxation both physically and mentally. Massage is used to treat muscle spasms, reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and facilitate healing through increasing blood flow and lymphatic drainage. The physiological effects of massage include decreased stress levels, lowered heart rate and blood pressure, reduced muscle tension, and release of endorphins.