Massage as a journey

Massage is much more than releasing and relaxing sore muscles. Massage can become a means to full wellness, to be healthy in body and mind. It's important to realize the holistic aspect to massage and how profound it can be emotionally. Massage can be used to release pent up feelings and blockages built over years of modern life with stress and challenges.

Attending a workshop the other day I met a woman who had returned from a vacation in Thailand a month or so ago. She was beaming, radiating. There was a light in her eyes as she told about her vacation. They had been away from children and she had tried out the different massages at the destination, getting one every day. She had tried traditional Thai massage, Swedish massage, four-hands massage and what else they offered at the destination.

The first massages were interesting for her and she felt her muscles relax and the usual sensations most people feel when receiving a massage. But then a revelation happened to her and it became almost a spiritual experience. She suddenly became aware of her body. Fully aware of all the tensions and knots, of the pains and discomfort. And as the massage therapist worked on her, she gained insights into her how her life-style was affecting her body. The massage gave her a physical and emotional release, which gained her a huge understanding of herself.

Even several weeks after the experience, she could feel how the massage had helped her, she still felt floating and alive. The massages she had received allowed her to let go and be fully accepting to the touch. Through the massages she realized where her life wasn't good for her and she decided to change these things. To take more time to relax and listen to herself, to heed the signals of her body and pay attention to the warnings.

This example shows very clearly how profound and life-changing massage can become. That massage is not just fixing a sore shoulder or a way to feel good. Massage can also become a life-altering experience that makes you grow as a person and helps you find a better life.

Massage and touch are very powerful tools if only you open up to the experiences and let go. If you allow the massage to become more than purely physical treatment. By accepting a massage fully and let go, you become clearly aware of your body and the signals it gives you and can not only improve your emotional health, but also your physical health.

Massage can lead you to greater happiness if you're willing to embrace the experience and accept the possibilities.

Related articles: Body awareness, The importance of touch, Misunderstood touch, 7 good reasons to get a massage, massage and communication.