MLD is a slow, rhythmical touch applied by the therapist in the form of a light massage. It is incredibly relaxing; some patients fall asleep during treatment. It has a calming, anti-stress effect which can facilitate the easing of pain and the reduction of blood pressure. It can also stimulate the immune defence system within the body. It brings about a change in the autonomic nervous system, lowering the "Sympathetic" nervous system (daytime / flight nerves) and accentuating the night / rest nerves of the "Parasympathetic" nervous system. MLD reduces pain by exciting the "touch receptors" in the skin which produce an inhibitory or blocking signal to the brain, with the correct application.