Why Do People Fall Asleep During Massage?

Have you ever found yourself drifting off into a blissful slumber during a massage? While some might see it as a sign of boredom or lack of engagement, the truth is that falling asleep during a massage is actually a common and beneficial occurrence. In fact, it's often a sign that the massage is doing its job properly. 

Massage therapy is a popular form of relaxation and stress relief that has been used for centuries. It can help to reduce tension, promote better sleep, and even improve circulation.

But why do people tend to doze off during a massage? Is it simply because they are relaxed, or is there more to it? In this article, we’ll explore why people often fall asleep during massage treatments, and what you can do to get the most out of your massage experience. We’ll also discuss how massage can help to promote better sleep and answer some of the most common questions about massage and sleep.

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Is It Common To Fall Asleep During A Massage?

It is actually very common to fall asleep during a massage. Many people have experienced this at one point or another. Massage therapy is a great way to relax and rejuvenate the body, and it can be so soothing that it can make you drowsy and even fall asleep. 

When you are getting a massage, your body is going into a state of relaxation. This can be a very calming and peaceful experience. As your muscles relax and your body releases tension, you can start to drift off into a state of restful sleep. 

Falling asleep during a massage can also be a sign that your body is in need of some rest and relaxation. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, your body may be telling you that it needs some time to rest and recover.

What Makes People Fall Asleep During Massages?

When people receive a massage, their bodies naturally relax and let go of tension. This can have a profound effect on the body, leading to a deep sense of relaxation and peace. As the body relaxes, it can cause people to drift off into a natural state of sleep. 

The massage therapist also plays a role in helping people to relax and fall asleep. The massage therapist will use different techniques such as long strokes, kneading, and tapping to help the body relax. These techniques can help to release tension and stress, allowing the body to reach a state of deep relaxation. The combination of these techniques can help to create an environment that is conducive to sleep. 

According to research, therapeutic massage releases neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which help to stabilize emotions and stress. And this can help promote sleep during the course of receiving a massage. So, if you find yourself falling asleep during a massage, don’t worry. It is a natural and healthy response to the relaxation techniques used during the massage.

Ready for a massage experience that will leave you feeling rested and rejuvenated? Book now to enjoy the ultimate relaxation experience, and discover why massage therapy is one of the best ways to improve your sleep.

Also check out this article: 9 Benefits Of Deep Tissue Massage You Should Know About

Their Parasympathetic Nervous System Activates

The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for rest and relaxation in the body, and it is activated during massage treatments. When the body is in a state of relaxation, it is much easier to drift off to sleep. 

The parasympathetic nervous system is activated during massage treatments, which can help people to relax and fall asleep. Endorphins are released, reducing tension and pain, while increased blood flow to the muscles can help to reduce stress and make it easier to drift off. Massage can create a calming atmosphere, making it easier to fall asleep.

According to a study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, back massage helped cancer patients sleep better by decreasing cortisol (stress hormones), stabilizing blood pressure and heart rate, and enabling higher-quality sleep.

It's What The Body Needed

When it comes to why people fall asleep during a massage, it's important to understand that this is a natural response. Our bodies are designed to relax and let go of stress when we are in a safe and comfortable environment. A massage can provide this kind of environment, and it's not uncommon for people to drift off to sleep during the session. 

The massage itself can also be very calming and soothing. The gentle pressure, combined with the warmth of the massage therapist's hands, can help to relax the body and mind. Let us not forget the coziness of the massage room and the soft melancholic background music. This can create a feeling of safety and comfort, which can make it easier to fall asleep.

Can Massages Promote Better Sleep?

Massage therapy has been proven to be an effective way to reduce stress and improve sleep. Studies have shown that massage can reduce cortisol levels in the body, which is a hormone associated with stress.

When it comes to promoting better sleep, massage can be especially helpful for those who suffer from insomnia. Research has shown that massage can improve sleep quality in those who suffer from insomnia, as well as reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.

Additionally, massage can also be beneficial for those who suffer from chronic pain, as it can help to reduce pain and inflammation, which can help to improve sleep quality.

What Should I Do If I Fall Asleep During A Massage Session?

If you find yourself dozing off during a massage session, there's no need to worry. Falling asleep during a massage is perfectly normal and can actually be beneficial for your health. It's a sign that your body is in a relaxed state and is able to take in the therapeutic benefits of the massage.

It's best to just let it happen. Don't try to fight it or stay awake, as this can make it harder to relax. Instead, focus on your breathing and allow yourself to drift off into a peaceful and restorative sleep.

However, if you're worried about missing out on the massage, you can always ask the therapist to provide a post-massage summary of the session. They can explain what techniques were used and what areas were worked on so you can be sure to get the full benefit of the massage.

Will My Massage Therapist Be Offended If I Fall Asleep During My Massage?

The short answer is: Absolutely Not! “As a Licensed Massage Therapist, I take it as the highest compliment when my client falls asleep on the table,” says Rachel Beider, owner of PRESS Modern Massage. “When a client falls asleep while being touched by another person, it indicates a deep level of trust and relaxation.”

Final Thoughts!

Falling asleep during a massage is a common occurrence due to the body's natural response to relaxation and stress relief. This state of relaxation can lead to deeper and more restful sleep, which is beneficial for both physical and mental health. 

If you do fall asleep during a massage, don’t worry about it, just enjoy the rest and relaxation. After all, that’s what massage is all about. So, the next time you get a massage, embrace the peace and allow yourself to drift off if it happens naturally.

If you haven't yet experienced the benefits of a massage, we encourage you to give it a try. Whether you're looking to relieve stress, ease muscle tension, or improve your overall well-being, a massage can be a valuable addition to your self-care routine. Don't hesitate to book an appointment with us today and discover the rejuvenating power of touch.

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Sources:

  1. FIELD, T. I. F. F. A. N. Y., HERNANDEZ-REIF, M. A. R. I. A., DIEGO, M. I. G. U. E. L., SCHANBERG, S. A. U. L., & KUHN, C. Y. N. T. H. I. A. (2005). Cortisol decreases and serotonin and dopamine increase following massage therapy. International Journal of Neuroscience, 115(10), 1397–1413. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207450590956459
  2. Pinar, R., & Afsar, F. (2016). Back massage to decrease state anxiety, cortisol level, blood prsessure, heart rate and increase sleep quality in family caregivers of patients with cancer: A randomised controlled trial. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 16(18), 8127–8133. https://doi.org/10.7314/apjcp.2015.16.18.8127 
  3. Pinar, R., & Afsar, F. (2016). Back massage to decrease state anxiety, cortisol level, blood prsessure, heart rate and increase sleep quality in family caregivers of patients with cancer: A randomised controlled trial. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 16(18), 8127–8133. https://doi.org/10.7314/apjcp.2015.16.18.8127 
  4. Hachul, H., Oliveira, D. S., Bittencourt, L. R. A., Andersen, M. L., & Tufik, S. (2014). The beneficial effects of massage therapy for insomnia in Postmenopausal women. Sleep Science, 7(2), 114–116. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.slsci.2014.09.005 
  5. Adams, R., White, B., & Beckett, C. (2010, March 17). The effects of massage therapy on pain management in the Acute Care Setting. International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3091428/ 

FAQs
Is it normal to fall asleep during a massage?

Yes, it is pretty normal to fall asleep during a massage. Massages are designed to relax the body and mind, so it is natural to drift off. Massage therapists understand that it is a sign of relaxation and are comfortable with it.

How do I keep myself awake during a massage?

While it's common to feel relaxed and even sleepy during a massage, some people may prefer to stay awake and enjoy the experience without nodding off. Here are some tips to help you stay awake during a massage:

  • Communicate with your massage therapist
  • Focus on your breathing
  • Ask your massage therapist to use a lighter pressure
  • Keep your mind active
  • Engage in conversation

Should I try not to fall asleep during a massage?

It is perfectly normal to fall asleep during a massage, don’t try to fight it. Some of the best deep work happens when the body isn’t guarding against it. 

Can a deep tissue massage make you sleepy?

Yes, a deep tissue massage can make you feel sleepy. This is because deep tissue massage involves applying pressure to the deeper layers of muscle tissue, which can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. 

This, in turn, can cause a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate, which can promote relaxation and a feeling of sleepiness.

What is the pressure point to make someone fall asleep?

There is no specific pressure point that will cause someone to fall asleep. Everyone is different and responds differently to massage. 

It is best to focus on relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and guided imagery, to help you drift off.

 

Posted on Fri, May 07, 2021