The Link Between Massage Therapy and Better Sleep

If you’re tossing and turning at night, massage therapy might be the reset your body needs. Many people struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep due to stress, chronic pain, or tension. Regular massage sessions directly address these issues and promote deeper, more restful sleep.

Massage calms the nervous system by triggering the parasympathetic response—your body’s natural “rest and digest” mode. This helps lower your heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and quiet mental chatter. Over time, that relaxation effect can carry into your sleep routine.

Massage therapy also encourages the release of neurotransmitters that regulate mood and rest:

• Serotonin: Boosted during massage, it helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle

• Dopamine: Promotes feelings of pleasure and calm

• Melatonin: The hormone that helps you fall and stay asleep, supported by serotonin levels

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For people dealing with chronic pain, massage helps reduce discomfort so it’s easier to relax at night. Conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, or even muscle soreness can interrupt sleep—but consistent massage can ease those symptoms and improve overall sleep quality.

Here’s how to get the most benefit:

• Schedule your massage in the evening if you want to unwind before bed

• Create a post-massage routine that includes warm tea, dim lights, and minimal screen time

• Stick to a regular schedule, just like you would with other sleep-friendly habits

Better sleep isn’t just about what you do before bed—it’s about how you take care of your body during the day. Massage therapy is one of the most relaxing, enjoyable ways to set yourself up for a good night’s rest.

Jennifer Ferdinand, owner of Serendipity Wellness Studio in Burke, VA, has been practicing massage therapy and esthetics since 2006. She is nationally certified through NCBTMB, and licensed in Virginia for both Massage Therapy and Esthetics.