A report into the benefits of massages suggests that just one massage session can have a significant effect on the immune system.

A study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, US, showed that people who received a Swedish massage had significantly increased numbers of lymphocytes - white blood cells which play a large role in defending the body from disease.

The study was conducted on 53 mentally and physically healthy adults who were aged between 18 and 45-years-old.

According to the results, people in the Swedish massage group experienced a large decrease in the hormone arginine vasopressin, which is understood to increase the stress hormone cortisol. In addition, Swedish massage also caused a small decrease in actual cortisol levels.

Another finding was that Swedish massage caused a notable decrease in cytokines - molecules which carry signals between cells in the nervous system - produced by stimulated white blood cells.

In particular, there was a decrease in TH-2 cytokine levels, which are associated with allergic inflammation ailments including asthma.

To read more about the study, click here for the latest issue of Health Club Management.