More Than A Luxury: Busting 5 Massage Myths You've Probably Heard

Emily Brown
6 days ago
3 min read

The Truth About Massage Therapy &

What Most People Get Wrong

Massage therapy is one of the oldest forms of healing and self-care, yet it’s still surrounded by myths and misconceptions that keep people from booking as often as they could benefit. Whether it’s a belief that it’s “just a luxury” or that it’s only useful when you’re in pain, these ideas can prevent you from making massage part of a regular wellness routine.

Let's Bust 5 of the Biggest Massage Myths

Myth 1: “Massage is just for relaxation.”

Truth: Yes, massage is deeply relaxing, but it’s also much more than that. Research shows that regular massage can:

Improve circulation and lymphatic flow
Lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and support immune function
Ease chronic pain and muscle tension
Improve sleep quality and mood

Think of it like exercise: you don’t go to the gym once, feel good, and never go again. Massage builds cumulative benefits over time. Relaxation is only the tip of the iceberg.

Myth 2: “Massage is only for when I’m injured or in pain.”

Truth: Massage isn’t just about “fixing” something — it’s about preventing problems before they start. Athletes use massage to recover faster and avoid injuries. Desk workers use it to keep neck and shoulder tension from turning into migraines. Busy parents and professionals use it to manage stress and avoid burnout.

Waiting until you’re in pain is like only going to the dentist when you have a toothache — by then, you’re already dealing with a bigger issue.

Myth 3: “I don’t have time.”

Truth: This is one of the most common barriers to self-care. Life gets busy, and we often put ourselves at the bottom of the list. But here’s the catch: when you don’t take time for your health, your body will eventually force you to take time for recovery.

Massage doesn’t always have to be a full 90 minutes. Even a 30- or 60-minute session once a month can help reset your body and mind, making you more productive and focused in the long run.

Myth 4: “Massage is only for when I’m injured or in pain.”

Truth: While massage can feel like a treat, it’s actually a form of healthcare recognized by many medical and wellness professionals. Doctors often recommend massage for conditions like chronic back pain, anxiety, fibromyalgia, or recovery from surgery or injury.

Taking care of your body isn’t indulgent — it’s essential. Think of massage as part of your wellness toolkit, right alongside exercise, good nutrition, and sleep.

Myth 5: “Massage is too expensive to do regularly.”

Truth: Cost can be a concern, but think of massage as an investment in long-term health. Regular massage can reduce healthcare costs by preventing injuries, easing chronic pain, and managing stress that could otherwise lead to more serious health issues.

Many spas (including ours!) also offer packages, loyalty programs, and seasonal specials that make massage more affordable. If budget is a concern, even booking once every month or two can make a big difference.

Breaking Down the Barriers

A lot of these myths come down to mindset — thinking of massage as a luxury instead of a tool for wellness, or putting it off until “someday” when life is less busy. But wellness doesn’t happen someday; it happens in the little choices you make now.

So tell us:

Which of these myths have you believed before?
What’s the biggest thing that sometimes holds you back from booking a massage?

Your feedback not only helps us understand how to better support your wellness journey — it also helps us keep improving how we care for our community.