Several studies indicate that massage combined with aromatherapy may be helpful for relieving anxiety.36
One study evaluated this combination therapy for treating anxiety and/or depression in people undergoing treatment for cancer.40 The treatment did appear to provide some short-term benefits.
In a 2008 review of 27 studies, for example, researchers concluded that relaxation therapies (including Jacobson's progressive relaxation, autogenic training, applied relaxation, and meditation) were effective against anxiety. (Although, not all of the studies were randomized, controlled trials.)66
In a randomized trial involving 68 patients with generalized anxiety disorder, ten sessions of therapeutic massage, thermotherapy (application of heat), or relaxation were all found to be beneficial at reducing anxiety, though none was superior to the others.67
