There are many benefits of massage including: reduced muscle soreness, improved blood circulation, stimulation of the lymphatic system, and reduction of cortisol, the stress hormone. However the biggest benefit of massage is typically relaxation. Massaging consists of applying deep pressure to the muscle fibers in your body, forcing them to relax. This stimulation slows your heart rate and calms your breathing. Those two actions trigger a reduction in cortisol, leaving you feeling relaxed and recovered.