Massage and Mental Health: Easing Anxiety and Stress Through Touch

At Integrative Acupuncture, we’ve always known the healing power of touch, but modern research is catching up in exciting ways. Whether you’re managing a stressful job, juggling family responsibilities, or navigating mental health challenges like anxiety or depression, massage therapy offers more than just physical relief. It can provide deep emotional and mental support, too.

Let’s explore how massage promotes mental well-being, both from a Western medical lens and through the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

The Science Behind Massage and Mental Health

Massage therapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, thanks to its ability to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase serotonin and dopamine, which are neurotransmitters that help regulate mood.

In a systematic review from the International Journal of Neuroscience, researchers found that massage therapy significantly reduced cortisol levels and increased serotonin and dopamine levels. 

Did You Know? Even a single session of massage can result in reduced heart rate, lowered blood pressure, and increased feelings of calm. You can book your massage session here with one of our wonderful massage therapists. 

How Massage Works in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, emotional health is deeply connected to the balance and flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”), the body’s vital life force. Emotional disturbances like anxiety and stress are often understood as imbalances in specific organ systems, particularly the Heart, Liver, and Spleen.

• The Heart governs the Shen — our spirit or consciousness — and when disturbed, can lead to insomnia, restlessness, or anxiety.
• The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. When Qi is stuck, you might experience frustration, irritability, or mood swings.
• The Spleen relates to worry and overthinking, especially when mental stress affects digestion.

Massage therapy in the TCM framework, including techniques like Tui Na (a therapeutic Chinese massage), works to move Qi, release stagnation, and harmonize the body’s energy systems. This not only relieves muscle tension but also supports emotional regulation.

What to Expect During a Therapeutic Massage Session

At Integrative Acupuncture, our licensed massage therapists are highly trained. We offer the following techniques to our massage clients:

• Swedish massage for relaxation and circulation
• Deep tissue massage to address chronic tension
• Prenatal massage to meet the needs of our pregnant clients
• Essential oils or aromatherapy can be used to enhance emotional calmness
• Reiki for energetic reset and calm

Who Can Benefit from Massage for Mental Health?

Massage can be a great option for people experiencing:

• General stress or burnout
• Anxiety or panic disorders
• Depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
• Sleep disturbances
• Post-traumatic stress symptoms

What the Research Says

Massage therapy is now recognized as a complementary treatment for mental health by many medical institutions:

• The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) notes massage’s effectiveness in relieving anxiety and promoting relaxation.
• According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massage may also support better body awareness, a key factor in trauma recovery and emotional regulation.

Integrative Care for Body and Mind

Massage is just one part of a broader approach to wellness. At Integrative Acupuncture, we offer:

• Find out how acupuncture for anxiety and mood disorders here
• Herbal medicine to nourish and calm the nervous system. Learn about our formula stress-free here.
• Cupping for energy and emotional balance. What is cupping? Find out here