Why Do We Feel So Good After a Massage?

One therapist answers nicely here. It’s complex, and simple, at the same time. Even though I know all this stuff and I’m a therapist myself, I was still surprised last week at the difference a 15 min. chair massage I got at the airport made. I had worked a full week, packed for a trip that night, got up early for a flight to L.A., was a bit anxious about my trip, my shoulders were tight, and I was tired. After the massage, I was happier, excited but not anxious, breathing slower and more fully, and my back and shoulders were relaxed. I hit the ground running and helped my sister with her new baby and toddler for 5 days, and I believe the massage helped me handle everything much better.