Which would be most likely to release GABA?

Which would be most likely to release GABA?

• A. Sleeping
• B. Chronic heart disease
• C. Sunburned skin
• D. Deep tissue massage

Answer: (D)

GABA is the brain’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter, and when it is released it dampens neuronal activity, producing calming effects, reduced anxiety, and lower pain perception. Activities that promote a relaxation response and lower sympathetic arousal tend to boost GABA release. Deep tissue massage provides sustained, soothing touch that shifts the body toward a parasympathetic state, which supports the release of GABA and related calming neurochemicals. This makes it the best fit among the options, since it directly involves a physical intervention known to enhance GABAergic activity. While sleep also involves GABA-related processes, it’s a state rather than an action that triggers release, and the other options don’t directly promote GABA release.

GABA is the brain’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter, and when it is released it dampens neuronal activity, producing calming effects, reduced anxiety, and lower pain perception. Activities that promote a relaxation response and lower sympathetic arousal tend to boost GABA release. Deep tissue massage provides sustained, soothing touch that shifts the body toward a parasympathetic state, which supports the release of GABA and related calming neurochemicals. This makes it the best fit among the options, since it directly involves a physical intervention known to enhance GABAergic activity. While sleep also involves GABA-related processes, it’s a state rather than an action that triggers release, and the other options don’t directly promote GABA release.