Grief Massage Therapy to Cope and Heal

Posted: November 5th, 2018

Grief hurts. Anyone who has shouldered the burden of losing a loved one knows that grief is a deep, arduous journey that is not easily overcome. You are subjected to any number of feelings, all of which are painful, involuntary, and sometimes relentless. Conventional wisdom suggests that emotional pain is best met with emotional therapy, which indeed is very important. But new research exploring the many benefits of physical touch has expanded the world of massage therapy to help assist those coping with loss as well. Anguish, especially when endured for a long time, takes a physical toll on your body. Poor sleep, tense muscles, diminished appetite, and a toxic concoction of stress-related biochemicals can adversely impact every system in your body. Massage therapy, long known for its physical benefits, can help to mitigate the mental impact of grieving too. 

A massage designed for emotional support 

Grief massage is a specially developed type of massage therapy that uses a gentle touch on the body areas most vulnerable to anxiety-induced tension. The belief is that a touch is a form of emotional support that, like counseling, can also help reduce the emotional stress and depression that grieving people endure chronically. Touch therapy can also be combined with aromatherapy, in which specific essential oils are used to reduce tension and anxiety and promote relaxation. Seek a licensed massage therapist that specializes in techniques specific to your needs. 

Can it really help? 

A healing touch is a powerful tool for stress management. When we are in tears, we naturally seek a hug or a hand to hold. Likewise, when we see people falling apart, our first instinct is to reach out and hold them. Physical touch releases the brain chemical oxytocin, which in turn decreases fear, relaxes muscles, and even reduces the perception of pain. Massage can offer tremendous support in helping people overcome painful losses.