Is it normal to cry after a deep tissue massage?

Author: Dr. Alexzander O'Keefe  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Massage therapy is not only a physical practice but also a profound emotional experience. It's common and entirely natural to experience emotional release, including tears, during or after a massage.

Why do I cry after a deep tissue massage?

Both during and after a massage you might feel any number of emotions. As the body relaxes, it is normal for the body to also release the emotional baggage we are holding on to. While you might feel elated, refreshed or energised, there may be times when you feel a need to cry. This is okay, and it's even normal.

Can deep tissue massage cause emotional release?

2. Emotional Release Stored Emotions: Emotions such as anger, sadness, and anxiety can be stored in the body's tissues. Deep tissue massage can release these trapped emotions, leading to a sense of emotional relief and clarity.

What are the side effects of deep tissue massage?

Muscle aches and fatigue is common after a deep tissue massage. The movement of muscle fibres causes stimulation that can often result in pain. If your pain lasts more than a few days, then consult your physician. Headaches and migraines after a Deep Tissue Massage are not uncommon.

What are the symptoms of detoxing after a massage?

Hydrating and resting can help alleviate these symptoms. After a massage, mild detox symptoms can occur as the body eliminates toxins. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle soreness, and headaches due to the release of lactic acid and other waste products.

Why do I get sore after a massage?

How long does it take your body to recover from a deep tissue massage?

Deep tissue massage can leave the body feeling sore for a few days after the massage. It is important to drink plenty of water and rest to help the body recover. Soft tissue massage does not typically cause soreness, and recovery time is minimal.

Do muscle knots hold toxins?

Muscle knots don't contain toxins. But some people claim that deep tissue massage can lead to lymphatic drainage and the release of toxins. While the lymphatic system does work to remove waste products from your body, there's limited research on lymphatic drainage treatment in general.

Why do I feel weird after deep tissue massage?

As tension is released from the muscles, emotions that have been stored within the body may also come to the surface. This emotional release can sometimes trigger feelings of sadness, anger, or anxiety which may contribute to feeling unwell after a session.

What is the most pleasurable type of massage?

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

How long does massage flu last?

How long does post-massage malaise last? Post-massage malaise typically lasts from a few hours up to two days, but staying hydrated and resting can help shorten the duration.

Does crying release trapped emotions?

The following are research-backed facts about crying: Tears can help release pent-up emotions, providing a sense of relief and calm. Crying can be a way to signal to others that you're going through a tough time and might need help.

Can lymphatic drainage massage make you emotional?

Headache/sore muscles: while the massage is gentle, it can lead to muscles releasing tension and toxins, which can cause headaches and soreness. Emotional sensitivity: has been reported by some patients and is completely normal. The lymphatic drainage massage is a healing therapy, which can sometimes feel overwhelming.

What does your body release when you get a massage?

Releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good and diminish pain. If you have real aches or pains, the morphine-like effect from the endorphins works by blocking pain signals from the brain causing a decrease in discomfort.

Does massage release emotional trauma?

Many people think that because massage is a natural therapy that it can't do any harm, but this is a classic example of where it absolutely can. Many therapists believe that by relieving muscle tension with a deep tissue massage, they will release emotions and therefore help to heal trauma.

Are painful deep tissue massages good for you?

The Risks of Painful Massage

This involuntary reaction can make the muscles tighter, counteracting the intended benefits of the massage. Injury Risk: Applying excessive pressure can cause bruising, inflammation, and even muscle or tissue damage. This can lead to prolonged recovery times and exacerbate existing issues.

Why do I smell after a massage?

In conclusion, it is not uncommon to notice a smell on your skin after receiving a massage. Factors such as the type of oil used, sweating during the session, and poor hygiene practices can all contribute to any odors present.

What is the most relaxing body part to massage?

Choosing Your Massage Focus Target Spots
  • ➪ Head. In our view, a head massage is a great choice for some extra focus, as it can be highly relaxing yet revitalising at the same time. ...
  • ➪ Neck & Shoulders. One of Top 3 selected body parts. ...
  • ➪ Back. ...
  • ➪ Buttocks. ...
  • ➪ Thighs. ...
  • ➪ Calves. ...
  • ➪ Feet. ...
  • ➪ Arms & Hands.

What kind of massage do men like?

Types of men's massage
  • Swedish massage.
  • Deep tissue massage.
  • Lymphatic massage.
  • Sports massage.
  • Oncology massage.
  • Hot stone massage.
  • Aromatherapy massage.
  • Thai massage.

Is it normal to cry during a deep tissue massage?

Massage therapy is not only a physical practice but also a profound emotional experience. It's common and entirely natural to experience emotional release, including tears, during or after a massage.

Why can't you shower after deep tissue massage?

After a massage, your body is in a state of relaxation and recovery, and the massage oils applied to your skin continue to nourish it. Taking a hot bath immediately could strip away these benefits. Generally, it's recommended to wait at least two to three hours after a massage before taking a bath.

Can massage therapists feel knots?

In conclusion, yes, massage therapists can indeed feel knots in your muscles. Through their extensive training and experience, they have honed their ability to detect areas of tension and release them effectively.

Why is my pee dark after a massage?

Your urine may become darker and smelly due to the stimulation of the kidneys. Your urination frequency may also increase throughout the day because your body is ridding itself of all the excess toxins. Lastly, you may feel sore and fatigued following your session.

How do you know if your body is full of toxins?

If you have been fighting a battle with acne, irritations, rashes, or even conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, it could be your body's way of telling you it's getting a bit bogged down by toxins.

What is the crunching during a massage?

Lack of blood supply to the muscle causes lactic acid to build up, over time this can solidify with calcium deposits and is often the reason we hear a crunching sound when trying to realise the knots.

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