It can come as a surprise – you are getting a massage (or you just finished) and you notice a wave of emotions coming on all of a sudden. You might have a quiet cry or feel unexpectedly calm yet raw, or you may notice memories you haven’t thought about in years. If this has happened to you, you’re not alone and it’s completely normal.
The Connection Between Body and Emotions
The human body and mind are deeply interconnected, with physical touch often serving as a bridge to emotional experiences. Massage involves intentional, therapeutic contact that engages the nervous system, muscles, and connective tissues. This process can unlock stored emotions, as the body holds onto stress, trauma, or unresolved feelings in ways that are not always consciously recognized.
The Role of the Nervous System
Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which governs rest and digestion, shifting the body from a state of heightened alertness (sympathetic activation) to one of calm and restoration. This shift can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, while increasing oxytocin and serotonin, which promote feelings of trust and well-being. As the nervous system recalibrates, suppressed emotions—such as sadness, grief, or even joy—may surface unexpectedly.
Research suggests that the vagus nerve, a key component of the parasympathetic system, plays a significant role in this process. Vagus nerve stimulation through touch can enhance emotional regulation, sometimes leading to the release of pent-up emotions. This is why some individuals may feel a sudden urge to cry or experience a wave of nostalgia during a session.
Somatic Memory and Emotional Storage
The concept of somatic memory refers to the idea that the body can “store” emotional experiences in muscles and tissues. For example, chronic tension in the shoulders or neck may be linked to prolonged stress or emotional burdens. When a massage therapist works on these areas, the physical release of tension can trigger an emotional response, as the body lets go of both physical and psychological strain. This phenomenon, sometimes called “body memory,” is supported by studies in somatic psychology, which highlight how trauma and stress can manifest physically.
What To Do if you get Emotional During Massage
- Give yourself time afterward. If you can, avoid rushing back into your day. A short walk, journaling, or quiet time at home can help you integrate the experience.
- Allow space for your feelings. Just knowing that this happens may help you avoid being embarrassed about your feelings — simply noticing them is enough.
- Be gentle with yourself. Consider taking a bath, a special meal with friends or family, or simply going to bed early or watching something fun on TV. Some TLC supports recovery.
In summary, when emotions surface during a massage session, trust that this is part of your body’s natural way of processing. Many Dreamclinic clients come in regularly and seeing the same therapist or the same few therapists also helps build a sense of trust so you can remain at ease even if you do get emotional. We all know that massage is truly therapeutic – sometimes the body lets go of tension, and sometimes it also lets go of emotion. There’s no need to do anything special — simply let the experience be part of your ongoing care.