The Healing Power of Touch
- DeeDee Bowser-Helbig
- Jul 10
- 2 min read
Massage is often seen as a luxury or a treat — a way to relax sore muscles or take a break from a stressful day. But beneath the surface, therapeutic touch holds something far deeper: the power to release emotional tension, support healing from trauma, and help the body let go of what the mind may not be ready to.
At Ava Bella Day Spa, we often see how massage creates space for not just physical relief, but emotional renewal, especially for those moving through grief, anxiety, or past trauma.
What is somatic emotional release?
"Somatic" refers to the body, so when we talk about somatic emotional release, we’re talking about how our bodies physically hold onto emotions. Trauma, stress, grief, and anxiety can all settle into our muscles, fascia, and nervous systems. These emotions may show up as chronic tension, fatigue, or unexplained discomfort.
Massage helps break that cycle by calming the nervous system and encouraging the body to release stored emotional energy through intentional touch, breath, and relaxation.
How the healing power of touch helps
Activates the parasympathetic nervous system Massage slows down your breathing, lowers blood pressure, and gently moves you from a “fight or flight” response into a “rest and digest” state where healing and emotional processing can occur.
Releases tension where emotions are stored Grief can settle in the chest. Anger may tighten the jaw or shoulders. Anxiety often shows up in the gut. A skilled massage therapist can target these areas with gentle, supportive techniques that encourage the body to let go.
Creates a safe space for emotional release It’s not uncommon for someone to feel teary, light-headed, or even laugh during a massage. That’s the body releasing emotional pressure that may have been building for days, months, or even years.
Restores a sense of connection Trauma often disconnects us from our own bodies. Therapeutic touch — especially when given with compassion and care — can help rebuild trust in our body and restore a sense of safety.
Who can benefit?
Massage for emotional or somatic release can be incredibly beneficial for anyone experiencing:
Grief or loss
Anxiety or chronic stress
PTSD or past trauma
Life transitions
Emotional burnout
What to expect during a session
At Ava Bella Day Spa, our licensed massage therapists understand the delicate nature of emotional release. You’ll be met with compassion, respect, and professionalism, always. Whether you’re looking for quiet relaxation or are open to a deeper emotional experience, we’ll create a safe space that meets your needs.
There’s no “right” way to feel during a massage. Whether you fall asleep, cry, laugh, or simply breathe deeply — that’s your body’s way of processing and healing.
Give yourself the gift of release
If you’ve been carrying emotional weight, massage can offer more than just relief, it can offer renewal. A space to let go, to breathe, and to begin again.
📍 Schedule your massage at Ava Bella Day Spa today and experience the healing power of touch. Your body — and your heart — will thank you.