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Beauty Blog: How Massage Can Help You Sleep Better
Monday, 28 July 2025
We know that getting a good night's sleep can sometimes feel like a luxury. Stress, screen time, or physical discomfort can keep us awake, even when we're not fully aware of it. Fortunately, there's a natural, relaxing remedy that's been helping people sleep better for centuries, that we just so happen to be BIG fans of... massage!
At Riverhills, we've seen first-hand how regular massage treatments can transform not just muscles, but sleep too. In fact, it's not uncommon for guests to nod off during a 60-minute Drift Away massage... and who could blame them? With calming sounds, gentle pressure, and a full hour of peaceful escape from the outside world, it's the perfect recipe for deep relaxation.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
One of the biggest culprits behind sleepless nights is stress, whether we're fully aware of how stress we feel or not. The good news is that massage has been shown to lower cortisol levels (which is your body's primary stress hormone) while increasing the production of serotonin and dopamine - the neurotransmitters that help regulate your mood and promote calm. This chemical shift can leave you feeling more relaxed and emotionally balanced, things that all help us with a smoother transition into sleep.
Eases Muscle Tension and Physical Discomfort
Tossing and turning because of tight shoulders, a stiff back, or aching legs? You may already know this, but massage works to release built-up tension, increase circulation, and promote muscle recovery, all of which can significantly reduce nighttime discomfort! Less pain means fewer sleep disturbances and a better chance of staying asleep longer, so if you're suffering with less sleep due to discomfort, perhaps it's time to treat yourself to a deep tissue massage (and possible better night sleep?)
Helps Reset Your Body's Sleep-Wake Cycle
If your sleep schedule is out of sync, appartently regular massage can also help support your natural circadian rhythm! Some studies have shown improvements in people suffering from insomnia, as massage helps the body establish more predictable sleep patterns through consistent relaxation and hormonal balance. Sounds good to us!
Can Improve Your Sleep Routine
Incorporating massage into your self-care routine (whether that's a monthly deep tissue session with us or a quick 15 minute back and neck massage at home) can lead to more consistent, restorative sleep.
Tip: Later appointments can be especially helpful, as after your appointment you can go home, relax, and drift off naturally after your session!
To help take your home massage experience to the next level, we recommend Temple Spa's Drift Away Bath and Massage Oil. This beautifully aromatic blend includes lavender, patchouli, and chamomile, all renowned for their calming and sleep-inducing properties. It's the oil we use in Drift Away that as we said, helps spa guests to frequently drift away! Whether used in a massage or added to a warm bath, Drift Away helps relax the mind and body, easing you gently into rest. It's the perfect complement to a pre-bedtime massage.
Ready to feel more rested and refreshed?
Call us or book online to schedule your next massage today.