“We all thrive on caring, compassionate touch.” — Dr. Carla Kuon
Have you ever noticed how a simple touch on the shoulder can calm your racing thoughts? Or how a warm hug can make a difficult day feel lighter? Touch is one of our most fundamental needs, yet in our busy modern lives, we often overlook its profound healing power.
Today, I want to share something that might change how you think about self-care: massage therapy isn’t just a luxury—it’s a pathway to genuine wellness.
What Massage Can Measure
Recent research reveals that 8.5% of Americans use massage for overall health. But what does “health” really mean? Scientists are discovering that massage works holistically—touching not just our muscles, but our emotions, our nervous system, and our spirit.
Think of massage like the problems on that teacher’s board from our previous reflection: we often focus on what’s wrong (pain, stress, tension), forgetting to appreciate what’s right (our body’s incredible capacity to heal, relax, and restore itself).
The Science of Feeling Good
When you receive a massage, remarkable things happen:
Your body shifts into calm mode. Massage activates your parasympathetic nervous system—think of it as your body’s natural “rest and digest” state. It’s like telling your entire being: “You’re safe. You can relax now.”
Pain finds relief. Research with veterans showed that twice-weekly massages for 12 weeks significantly reduced chronic pain—and these benefits lasted for months afterward. Another study found that people aged 50 and older experienced the most dramatic improvements in lower back pain.
Your blood flows better. Scientists discovered that massage improves vascular function throughout your entire body—not just where you’re being massaged. Touch one area, and your whole system responds.
Natural happiness chemicals increase. Massage triggers the release of endorphins, your body’s own pain-relievers and mood-lifters. It’s wellness you can feel.
What Massage Can’t Measure (But You’ll Feel Anyway)
Remember our reflection about the thermometer measuring temperature but not warmth? The same applies here.
Beyond the measurable benefits, massage offers something deeper:
Human connection. In our digital age, many people experience “touch hunger”—especially those dealing with chronic illness, fatigue, or isolation. A caring, professional touch reminds us of our humanity.
Mind-body awareness. Massage helps people reconnect with their bodies. One participant in a study said beautifully that “massage therapy reminded her of her human-ness.”
Emotional release. The physical and emotional are inseparable. As tense muscles soften, so do anxious thoughts. As blood flows freely, so does emotional energy.
Who Needs the Healing Touch?
Here’s the beautiful truth: everyone can benefit.
But those who might experience the greatest transformation are people who:
- Live with chronic pain or illness
- Experience high stress or anxiety
- Have limited social interaction
- Rarely receive healthy, caring touch
- Are going through difficult medical treatments
As one cancer center therapist noted, “When patients come in, they’re always like: ‘You’re the massage guy, right?’ Then you’re everybody’s favorite person.”
Bringing Touch Into Your Life
Professional massage can be expensive, and I understand that. But remember: some form of therapeutic touch is essential for thriving.
Here are ways to incorporate healing touch:
Self-massage: Your own hands can provide tremendous relief. Try massaging your temples during a headache, or your feet before bed.
Exchange with loved ones: Offer to massage a family member’s shoulders while they massage yours. Share the gift of caring touch.
Simple touch rituals: Even placing a warm hand on your own heart and breathing deeply can be healing.
Professional sessions when possible: If you can afford it, consider regular massage as healthcare, not luxury. Some health plans now cover it.
A Final Reflection
Life is like eating pears, as we discussed before. If you focus only on discomfort and stress, you’ll spend your whole life in misery. But if you give yourself permission to receive care, to feel good, to prioritize your wellbeing—you transform your experience.
Your body is constantly working for you: your heart beating, your lungs breathing, your systems healing. Perhaps it’s time to say thank you with the gift of nurturing touch.
As that wonderful Confucian wisdom teaches: if we don’t accept people, we lack magnanimity. Perhaps we should apply that same grace to ourselves. Accept your need for care. Accept your worthiness of healing. Accept the simple, profound power of compassionate touch.
What can’t be measured in your body is called—wellness.
What can’t be scheduled on your calendar is called—self-love.
What your hands can give yourself is called—healing.
Be kind to your body today. It’s the only one carrying you through this beautiful life.
Have you experienced the benefits of massage or therapeutic touch? What helps you feel more connected to your body and wellbeing? Share your thoughts below—let’s encourage each other on this journey!
