How to Know When It’s Time for a Massage
Some aches and pains are easy to brush off — a stiff neck here, a sore back there. But over time, these little discomforts start adding up. What your body might really be asking for is a break, a reset, or even a bit of hands-on support.
At Strive Holistic in downtown Edmonton, we believe massage therapy isn’t just about fixing pain when it’s unbearable. It’s about tuning in, building awareness, and responding early — so you can prevent chronic issues and stay feeling your best.
In this post, we’ll walk through the signs it’s time to book a massage, how often most people benefit from treatment, and why listening to your body is the best self-care strategy.
5 Signs It Might Be Time to Book a Massage
1. You’re Carrying Tension — Even If You Don’t Notice It
One of the most common reasons people come in for massage is muscular tension — but often, they don’t realize how much they’re holding until they’re on the table.
Some signs tension is building up:
You wake up stiff or sore
Your shoulders feel “stuck” or rounded forward
You’re unconsciously clenching your jaw or fists
You’ve developed a “knot” that won’t go away
Massage helps by increasing circulation, releasing stuck fascia, and giving your nervous system space to settle. At Strive, we tailor every session to your tension patterns — so whether you need deep tissue work or something more gentle, you’re getting exactly what your body needs.
2. Your Movement Feels Limited
Are you struggling to bend, twist, or move as freely as you used to? Limited range of motion is often caused by fascial restrictions, joint stiffness, or trigger points in surrounding muscles.
A targeted massage session can help:
Restore shoulder, neck, or hip mobility
Improve flexibility in hamstrings or lower back
Loosen tight joints affected by overuse
Even one session can make a difference — and ongoing treatment can support functional movement that lasts.
3. Stress Is Starting to Show Up in Your Body
Stress isn’t just in your head — it’s in your body, too. From clenched jaws to shallow breathing to digestive upset, chronic stress impacts every system.
Massage helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system (your “rest and digest” mode), which:
Slows your heart rate
Regulates your breathing
Improves sleep quality
Reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels
If you’ve been feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained, your body might be asking for a moment to reset — and massage is a powerful way to support that.
4. You’re Recovering from an Injury or Training Hard
Whether you’ve pulled a muscle, overtrained, or are prepping for a race, your recovery matters. At Strive, we work with athletes and active individuals to support faster healing, prevent re-injury, and improve performance.
Massage can:
Break down scar tissue and adhesions
Increase blood flow to healing tissues
Support lymphatic drainage
Reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)
This is where modalities like sports massage, Graston therapy, or cupping come into play — all available with no added cost at Strive.
5. You’re Just Not Feeling Like Yourself
Sometimes it’s not a specific injury or ache — it’s that lingering sense that your body just isn’t operating at 100%. You’re more tired. More irritable. Less comfortable in your own skin.
Massage therapy helps you reconnect with your body, quiet your mind, and leave feeling grounded. That alone can make all the difference.
So… How Often Should You Book a Massage?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some clients book monthly as part of their wellness routine. Others come in more frequently during periods of stress or recovery.
The best frequency for you depends on:
Your goals (pain relief, relaxation, injury rehab)
Your lifestyle and activity level
How your body responds to treatment
Not sure where to start? Book one session and see how you feel — we’ll work together to build a plan that fits your needs and schedule.
Ready to Tune In to Your Body?
Your body speaks — and massage helps you listen.
If you’re feeling the signs of stress, tension, or movement restrictions, it might be time to take that next step. At Strive Holistic, we offer customized massage therapy rooted in evidence-based care and tailored to how you feel.
📍 Located in Evolve Strength Downtown Edmonton
📅 Book your massage today and give your body what it’s been asking for.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know it’s time to get a massage?
If you’re noticing tension, reduced mobility, stress symptoms, or just not feeling your best — your body is likely ready for massage.
Can I just come in once, or do I need ongoing sessions?
You’re welcome to book one session! That said, regular massage (even once a month) often brings more lasting benefits.
Is massage therapy covered by insurance?
Yes. Strive Holistic offers direct billing for most major providers in Alberta.
What should I expect during my first visit?
You’ll start with a short intake to discuss your needs and goals, followed by a personalized massage session in a calming space.
