How Often Should You Get a Massage?

People often ask us how frequently they should get a massage, and the answer depends on several factors, from the severity of discomfort to the amount of time and money a person can afford to spend on self-care. However, one thing is clear: getting a massage at least once a month is incredibly beneficial as preventative care and can actually save time and money in the long run by reducing the need for recovery from stress and injuries.

In today’s fast-paced world, personal well-being often gets pushed aside in favor of work, family, and other responsibilities. However, self-care is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Incorporating regular massage into your routine is a powerful way to maintain your body’s well-being and improve your quality of life, enabling you to do the things you love.

The Body’s Silent Messages

Our bodies are constantly adapting to the ways we move—or don’t move—throughout the day. Whether it’s hunching over a computer, carrying heavy grocery bags, or curling up on the couch at night, each habit shapes our posture and movement patterns. Over time, these repetitive motions create muscle imbalances that we might not even notice.

Poor postural habits in your daily life could be contributing to pain and discomfort.

Pain is not the body’s first warning sign—it’s the last resort. When you start feeling discomfort, your body has already been compensating for quite some time. That’s why waiting until something hurts to get a massage isn’t the best approach. Instead, proactive care can keep minor issues from escalating into chronic pain or injury.

Monthly Massage as Preventative Care

Rather than waiting for pain to become unbearable, regular massage helps prevent problems before they start. Seeing a Licensed Massage Therapist monthly allows you to address muscle tension, restricted movement, and stress build-up before they become significant issues.

Prevent pain, discomfort, and even potentially surgeries by using massage therapy as part of your preventative healthcare plan.

Massage is more than just a way to relax—it’s a form of preventative medicine. Many surgeries, from carpal tunnel procedures to rotator cuff repairs, could potentially be avoided through consistent massage and other non-invasive treatments. Of course, not every case can be resolved without medical intervention, but many people opt for surgery without first exploring options like massage or physical therapy.

The Science Behind Monthly Massage

Beyond the immediate relaxation, there’s a strong scientific foundation behind the benefits of regular massage:

• Reduces Muscle Tension: Regular massage helps break down adhesions in muscle tissue, reducing stiffness and improving flexibility.

  
  

• Enhances Circulation: Increased blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to muscles, speeding up recovery and reducing inflammation.

  
  

• Promotes Stress Management: Chronic stress contributes to muscle tension, anxiety, and fatigue. Massage lowers cortisol levels while increasing serotonin and dopamine, helping you feel calmer and more balanced.

  
  

• Improves Sleep Quality: By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, massage can lead to better, deeper sleep.

  
  

• Boosts Energy Levels: With reduced muscle tightness and improved circulation, many people find they have more energy and mental clarity after regular massage sessions.

Scientific studies support these claims. Research published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork has demonstrated that regular massage therapy can significantly reduce muscle soreness, improve flexibility, and lower stress hormone levels. Another study in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that massage therapy plays a vital role in reducing chronic pain and improving overall well-being.

Building a Monthly Massage Routine

Making massage a part of your lifestyle isn’t just about scheduling appointments—it’s about prioritizing your well-being. Here’s how to establish a sustainable routine:

Monthly massage routine checklist!

1. Prioritize Self-Care – Understand that taking care of your body is not indulgent; it’s essential for long-term health and well-being.

   
   

2. Listen to Your Body – Pay attention to early signs of tension and stiffness. Don’t wait for pain to become unbearable before seeking care.

   
   

3. Find the Right Therapist – Work with a skilled massage therapist who understands your body’s needs and can tailor each session to address specific concerns.

   
   

4. Be Consistent – The key to preventative care is consistency. Scheduling monthly massages allows for ongoing maintenance, reducing the likelihood of serious issues.

   
   

5. Take a Holistic Approach – Combine massage with other self-care practices like regular exercise, stretching, proper hydration, and good nutrition for the best results.

The Long-Term Benefits of Monthly Massage

Incorporating massage into your routine isn’t just about relaxation—it’s a proactive approach to maintaining a healthy, pain-free life. By keeping muscle tension in check, improving mobility, and managing stress, you can avoid bigger issues down the road.

Understanding that pain is the body’s last line of defense—not the first—can help shift your mindset toward preventative care. With monthly massage, you can enjoy improved mobility, reduced stress, better sleep, and an overall higher quality of life.

So, why wait until you’re in pain? Start reaping the benefits of regular massage today and invest in your well-being for the long haul.

References

1. Field, T. (2016). Massage therapy research review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 24, 19-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2016.04.005

2. Moyer, C. A., Rounds, J., & Hannum, J. W. (2004). A meta-analysis of massage therapy research. Psychological Bulletin, 130(1), 3-18. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.130.1.3

3. Weerapong, P., Hume, P. A., & Kolt, G. S. (2005). The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery, and injury prevention. Sports Medicine, 35(3), 235-256. https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200535030-00004

4. Cambron, J. A., Dexheimer, J., Coe, P., Swenson, R., & Mishra, N. (2011). Side effects of massage therapy: A cross-sectional study of 100 clients. International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, 4(1), 3-11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3091428/

5. Cherkin, D. C., Sherman, K. J., Kahn, J., & Wellman, R. (2011). A comparison of the effects of two types of massage and usual care on chronic low back pain. Annals of Internal Medicine, 155(1), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-155-1-201107050-00002