There are many different styles of massage, and just as many different reasons to get one. From pure mental de-stressing with light pressure and caring touch, to deep and specific Trigger Point Therapy intended to increase range of motion, each massage has its own purpose. For many, there is the belief that a massage has to hurt to be beneficial, “No Pain, No Gain” as they say, but this does not have to be the case, and can often cause problems.
Those who strive to handle the deepest work a massage therapist can give walk away potentially worse than before the massage, whereas those who stay within the bounds of the “Good Hurt” feeling may feel some soreness the next day, but will also experience far more musculoskeletal relief.
The Good Hurt Phenomenon
The "good hurt" phenomenon, at its core, is the positive association with the sensation of muscle discomfort as a result of signals transmitted by sensory nerves to the brain.
During a massage, as pressure is applied to tense or knotted muscles, sensory nerves are activated, sending signals to the brain. This influx of signals triggers the brain's interpretation of the experience. In the case of the "good hurt," the brain processes these signals as a positive response to therapeutic touch. The brain's release of endorphins, often referred to as the body's natural painkillers, contributes to the sensation of pleasure amid the discomfort. Endorphins bind to opioid receptors in the brain, mitigating the perception of pain and inducing a sense of euphoria. Many people who experience this good hurt feeling find it oddly satisfying. It is the odd combination of settling into a sensation of discomfort to induce a state of relaxation and well-being.
Interestingly, the brain's response to these signals is not a uniform experience; rather, it is
influenced by various factors, including the individual's pain threshold, emotional state, and the context of the stimulus. This is why it is good to go to a therapist you trust, in a safe and caring atmosphere. Most importantly, staying within one’s own pain tolerance and speaking up when it feels too much will keep your body feeling calm, your muscles loosening, and your brain pumping endorphins instead of stress hormones.
The Holistic Benefits of the Good Hurt
As we appreciate the neurological intricacies, it becomes evident that the "good hurt" is not merely a physical phenomenon but a holistic experience that encompasses the interconnection of body, mind, and soul. The mind's interpretation of sensory signals influences the overall perception of the massage, shaping it into an experience that goes beyond momentary relief.
In the intricate world of bodywork, the "good hurt" serves as a neurological signal that positive change is underway. It is the body's way of expressing gratitude, whispering, "Thank you for addressing my needs."
Getting Comfortable with the “Good Hurt” in Massage
Mastering the art of settling into a deep tissue massage to reach this beneficial level is a multifaceted skill, involving not only physical relaxation but also a mental and emotional journey.
First, it is very important to listen to your body to know the boundary line where just enough becomes too much. Tensing up or holding your breath are big warning signs that pressure has gone beyond the good hurt and it’s time to back off. It can be helpful to remember that one’s tolerance today is not the same as yesterday’s or tomorrow’s, and as you gain comfort with your body and your therapist, it is very common for one’s pain tolerance to go up over time.
Second, learning to breathe deeply and calmly during a massage allows the intertwining of breath with touch to become a meditative practice, and helps healing energy to flow into the specific areas where the therapist is working. While the discomfort may be transient, the long-term benefits of improved mobility, expanded range of motion, and an overall elevation in the quality of life can be profound.
Appreciating the subtleties of the "good hurt" necessitates finding the sweet spot where momentary discomfort metamorphoses into enduring healing. This journey becomes a vital collaboration, a trust exercise between the recipient and the massage therapist that surpasses the bounds of momentary relief. As you navigate and breathe through the temporary discomfort, you are laying the foundation for lasting benefits that extend far beyond the confines of the massage table.
So, the next time you settle onto that welcoming massage table and encounter the "good hurt," take a deep breath, embrace the discomfort, and acknowledge that you are making an investment in a healthier, more vibrant version of yourself. Finding appreciation in the neurological dance of the "good hurt" becomes the secret key, unlocking the maximum healing potential through the transformative power of bodywork.
Comments