Why does a massage make me cry?

Author: Dr. Deshawn Beer DDS  |  Last update: Thursday, July 24, 2025

Massage induces biochemical and energetic shifts by alleviating physical tension. This release can stir emotions and lead to tears, signaling a healthy, natural process of stress relief and emotional balance.

Is it normal to cry when getting a massage?

No, absolutely not! Crying during a massage session is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. In fact, it is perfectly normal and healthy. It is the body's way of releasing stress and getting rid of toxins that are trapped or held on into the muscle tissues.

Why do I get emotional after a 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 trauma be released through massage?

Holistic Healing Trauma massage therapy addresses both physical and emotional aspects of trauma. By working through physical tension, it often leads to emotional release, promoting comprehensive healing. Reduces Physical Pain Many trauma survivors experience chronic pain.

Does massage release negative energy?

A large part of massage therapy lies in extracting negative energy and not letting it flow back or even from the therapist into the client. A clear example of reacting to negative energy is best described in the relief of pain.

I Have Made People Cry During a Massage

What happens inside your body when you get a massage?

The physical manipulation in massage has two major physical effects: Increase in blood and lymph circulation. Relaxation and normalization of the soft tissue (muscle, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments), which releases nerves and deeper connective tissues.

Can massage release grief?

Grief massage helps a person heal by allowing them to shift out of the stress response and into the relaxation response. Following a major loss, grieving individuals often find it very difficult to relax on their own. Here's where a massage therapist can help. Massage Helps People Cope with the Loss of a Loved One.

How often should you get a massage?

1. What are the general massage frequency guidelines? It is generally recommended to get a massage once a month to maintain the benefits of relaxation and stress relief. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific health concerns or physical discomfort.

What does it feel like when trauma is released from the body?

Physical Sensations

Tingling or Warmth: You may feel tingling sensations or warmth in certain areas of your body as trauma is processed and released. Muscle Tension and Relaxation: Muscles that have been chronically tense due to trauma may suddenly relax, leading to a sensation of relief or heaviness.

Why do I feel loopy after a massage?

Fatigue after a deep tissue massage is a common and usually normal response. This fatigue can be seen as the body's way of managing the physiological changes it undergoes during the massage. Other typical side effects include muscle soreness, headaches, flu-like symptoms, and dizziness.

Are emotions stored in the body?

Can emotions be trapped in the body? In a sense, yes. It is well-established that emotions affect the body as well as the mind. If a person has persistent or unresolved feelings that cause physical symptoms, they may feel as though these emotions are trapped or stuck.

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.

Why do people get emotional after massage?

Your body, as a survival response, will recognise certain situations and automatically have a physical reaction - a response which might not be a conscious thing. So, when that physical reaction is tampered with, by releasing the tension in the soft tissue, it can also release the emotional reaction.

Do massage therapists like when you talk?

The preference for conversation during a massage can vary among massage therapists. While some may appreciate conversation as a means of building rapport and enhancing the therapeutic experience, others prioritize creating a serene environment for clients to fully relax and connect with their mind and body.

Why do I feel terrible after a massage?

Increased circulation: One of the main reasons why some people feel sick after a deep tissue massage is due to the increased circulation in the body. During a deep tissue massage, pressure is applied to the muscles which can help improve blood flow and circulation.

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.

Can too much massage be bad?

Actually, you can get massaged too frequently. Once a week is the most you should go unless you are dealing with pain or high-intensity sports. Between you and your therapist, you'll be able to determine the best frequency because your body's response is a large part of this determination.

How often do NFL players get massages?

Generally, professional athletes might receive massages anywhere from once a week to several times a week.

Is it normal to cry during a 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.

What part of the body holds grief?

Where do we hold grief in our body? Grief affects the entire body, including the organs, skin, brain, and tissues. It can create issues with muscle tenion, sleeping difficulties, and affect how the brain and body process information and emotions.

Does crying release grief?

They can help relieve stress and release emotions. Grief tears can be a bit different, because when someone dies it is some of the worst emotional pain that you go through. Just 'having a good cry' is not going to make the pain go away, although sometimes letting your feelings out can be a relief.

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.

What part of the body feels best to massage?

The back is one of the most requested areas in any massage. It's where many people carry stress, tension, and discomfort from sitting, standing, or physical activity. Therapists focus on the upper, middle, and lower back to release tightness and improve mobility. The neck and shoulders are another high-tension zone.

What can go wrong during a massage?

Disc herniation, soft tissue trauma, neurologic compromise, spinal cord injury, dissection of the vertebral arteries, and others were the main complications of massage. Spinal manipulation in massage has repeatedly been associated with serious AEs especially. Clearly, massage therapies are not totally devoid of risks.

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