written by Mary Everitt, LMT
“Can I still get a massage while I’m on my period?”
I get this question ALL the time. YES! A thousand times, yes.
If you feel comfortable receiving touch, then getting a massage is one of the kindest and most effective ways to support your wellbeing when you’re on your cycle.
I personally find it challenging to give myself permission to slow down and nourish myself in this time. Getting more sleep, moving a little slower, and eating the protein and fat my body needs for fuel. It has to be an intentional choice to listen and attend to those needs so that I can attend to the rest of the needs of a very full life.
I have clients who try to time their massages to avoid this generally consistent event on their monthly calendar. I get that. There are certain things you don’t want to worry about as you’re trying to relax into your massage. However, I’d invite you to think about it this way:
Common PMS symptoms:
Fatigue
Migraines
Back Pain
Cramping
Sensory sensitivity
Anxiety/Depression
Increasingly feeling like what you normally handle in day-to-day stress is too much on your plate?
Babes, this is a lot to be bombarded with on a regular basis, particularly as I’m guessing you’re suffering silently while continuing to be the #bosslady you are in the world.
That said, here are a few reasons why timing your massage before or during your cycle will be supportive to you:
Firstly: there’s no shame here. You don’t need to be embarrassed that your body is going through a natural rhythm.
Secondly: While never convenient, it doesn’t have to run you over every month. What if as you anticipated this, you were able anticipate a need and to meet your body with love and support?
Heat: Warm table, towels, and hot stones are helpful to increase circulation to your muscles, joints, and organs while reducing muscle tension.
Essential oil blends that focus on soothing cramps and decreasing bloating can be applied during your massage.
Abdominal massage can be gentle and supportive to ease tension in abdominal muscles and the deeper layers of connective tissue. This can also support your flow and alleviate constipation. Working around your ribs can increase and deepen your breathing, which naturally helps to ease pain, decrease stress and increase relaxation.
Hydrotherapy: Headaches can be eased with head + neck massage and hot/cool packs.
Hormonal Balance: research shows that massage helps to balance hormones, particularly ACTH (a stress response hormone) and Oxytocin (commonly associated with touch and bonding, as well as activating the immune system.)
You are strong, you are able and sometimes you need a little extra love to move you through the week. You can ensure you’ll receive that care in this way.
I’m currently running a promo code for 75 min massage + hot stones - follow us on IG @raphahealingartsmassage to get the code! xox
If you’re not a person that cycles, but love someone that does, this is a LOVELY way to support them.
Gift Certificates available through our contact form here
Click here to schedule your massage <3
Sources + Links
Massage Causes Beneficial Hormone Changes
Neurohormonal Effects of Massage Therapy
Essential Oil Support for PMS + Cramps
