Massage Therapy Relieves Insomnia

Sometimes, a good night's sleep seems impossible to attain. Whether that's because of specific or general stress, hormonal or schedule changes, short-term or chronic pain, there's nothing quite so frustrating as watching the clock count off the hours while you lie wide awake - knowing you'll have to start the coming day without nearly enough sleep.

Fortunately, massage can make a significant difference.

How Massage Works

When you tell your Massage Envy professional therapist about your sleep difficulties, you'll receive a massage designed to address the problem. Research has shown that regular massage therapy not only reduces pain and anxiety but also increases relaxation, which can help restore your sleep pattern.

"There's a release of serotonin, which is the body's natural production of anti-pain chemicals," explains Dr. Tiffany Field, director of the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine. "Massage is very effective at increasing deep sleep."

Adding Lavender

It may sound like an old wives' tale, but University of Maryland Medical Center researchers found that while massage is known to encourage relaxation for better sleep, aromatherapy massage can be even more effective.

Clinical studies of patients receiving a massage with and without essential oils found that those whose massage included lavender showed a more positive reaction including improved sleep, less anxiety and stronger mental capacity. Ask about the Lavender Garden AromaTherapy blend*, known for promoting restful sleep, when you visit Massage Envy.

*Indicates additional charges to massage therapy session.