The lights are out, the music is dreamy, the temperature is just right, the massage is amazing. You’re sooooo relaxed…zzzzzzzzzz…
“Oh gosh, sorry I just did that!” you exclaim awkwardly as the sound of your own snoring wakes you from your light doze.
“No worries,” smiles your massage therapist, “It happens all the time!”
If this scenario sounds familiar to you, you may wonder why it’s so easy to drift off to sleep during a massage. You may have also noticed that you enjoy a fantastic night’s sleep after getting a massage earlier the same day. There are actually several reasons why massages can make us sleepy, and sleep well. Let’s explore:
- The release of feel-good hormones. Massages can make you fall asleep because of the increased amounts of serotonin and dopamine that your nervous system releases as you relax. These hormones can induce feelings of relaxation, pain relief, and even drowsiness. This leads to a feeling of bliss and tranquility, where the stress and tension of everyday life fades into the background. The release of serotonin and dopamine is the reason why massages are considered to be extremely effective in combating stress and anxiety. Learn more here.
- The regulation of the sympathetic nervous system. This is what is responsible for our fight-or-flight responses. In our day-to-day lives, we can overstimulate our sympathetic nervous system due to stress from work, family, or other circumstances. When it is stimulated, our sympathetic nervous system causes our body to enter a state of high alert. But when it is regulated, it allows us to feel relaxed and restful. Professional therapeutic massages help reduce the overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, helping your body to relax and reset, which can make you sleepy during and after your massage.
- The reduction of hyperarousal symptoms. This state of constant vigilance can occur due to post-traumatic stress disorders and causes irritability, panic, anger outbursts, and continuous anxiety. Therapeutic massages can decrease the body’s levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, making it easier for you to relax and be more prone to falling asleep during your massage.
In addition to helping you sleep, massage therapy is also a great way to help improve your mental health and reduce stress.
If you are in Miami’s Brickell area, come experience the ultimate in relaxation with Healing Hands Therapeutic Massage. Our massage therapists are highly trained professionals, dedicated to providing you with the best massage experience. We look forward to seeing you soon.