Did you know that PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) affects 12 million Americans each year?
Of course, millions more may not have PTSD, but they still struggle with the stress and anxiety of everyday life. This is one reason why natural health modalities like massage therapy continue to be so popular.
You’ve probably heard of an “emotional release,” and you might know that it can occur while you’re receiving bodywork. But is it possible to experience this release after a massage — perhaps hours or even days later?
Keep reading below as we explore this fascinating topic!
What Is an Emotional Release?
Massage therapy is widely known for its physical benefits, like relieving pain and tension. However, some people also experience an emotional release during a massage. Profound and deeply personal, this “release” extends beyond relaxation, tapping into our emotional and psychological well-being.
During this release, pent-up emotions are freed from the body. This can manifest in different ways, such as tears, laughter, shaking, or a deep sense of relief. Our bodies store emotions in the form of tension, and therapeutic touch can help unlock these suppressed feelings.
Massage can reach deep into our muscular and nervous systems, which are repositories for unresolved emotions. As the physical kinks are worked out, emotional blockages can also dissolve, leading to a sudden (and often unexpected) release.
Although it can be startling, this process is highly beneficial, allowing us to process and let go of the burdens we’ve been carrying.
Does an Emotional Release Always Happen Immediately?
Is it possible to experience an emotional release after your massage session has ended?
In a short answer, yes!
For many people, it may occur during the session, marked by a sudden outpouring of emotion. For others, though, the release is delayed, surfacing hours, days, or even weeks after the massage.
The timing of an emotional release is influenced by many factors, including:
- the depth of the emotional issue
- the person’s openness to the process
- the specific techniques used by the massage therapist
Deep tissue massage, for example, tends to elicit a more profound release than a gentle Swedish massage, given its intense focus on breaking down deep-seated tension.
It’s important to know that there is no “right” or “wrong” way to experience an emotional release. Each person’s journey is unique, and the body knows the best timing for such a release.
Self-Care After an Emotional Release
Experiencing an emotional release can be cathartic but overwhelming, especially in the case of an extended release. Therefore, self-care is crucial in the following days to help process the experience and support your emotional well-being.
Here are a few self-care tips to help your body through this important healing process.
- Rest and Hydration: After an emotional release, it’s vital to rest and stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins released during the massage, aiding in physical and emotional recovery.
- Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be incredibly therapeutic. Journaling provides a safe space to explore and process emotions that have surfaced, promoting self-awareness and understanding.
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or meditation can help you stay grounded and centered. These practices encourage a calm mind, making it easier to process and accept the emotional changes you’re experiencing.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist if you need to talk about your experience. Sharing your feelings can provide comfort and perspective.
- Gentle Exercise: Engaging in gentle physical activities like yoga or walking can help balance your energy and maintain emotional equilibrium.
If massage therapy is already part of your self-care routine, don’t neglect that, either. If you experienced a release after a deeper bodywork session, perhaps a more relaxing massage could be in order.
Whether you need a deep tissue, sports, or Swedish massage, we’re ready to help you feel your best. Use our online form or call us today at 970-748-1600 to schedule your next session at Simply Massage!