A good night’s sleep is one of the most important foundations of health, yet many Aussies find it hard to get enough rest. Whether it’s due to a busy schedule, work stress or too much screen time, sleep troubles can leave you feeling exhausted, irritable and struggling to get through the day. Over time, poor sleep can also affect your immune system, mood, and general wellbeing, making it a challenge that’s hard to ignore.
While plenty of people turn to herbal teas, white noise or relaxation apps, massage therapy is an often-overlooked natural option for improving sleep. By helping the body relax, calming the mind and easing muscle tension, massage can support a more restful and refreshing night.
In this article, we’ll explore why massage for better sleep is gaining attention, the key benefits it offers and how you can experience it yourself with the help of Blys.
The science behind massage and sleep
Massage does much more than simply help you relax — it can play a direct role in improving how well you sleep. By working on the body’s muscles and soft tissues, massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for slowing the heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and preparing the body for rest.
One key benefit is its effect on stress hormones. Massage helps reduce cortisol, the hormone linked to stress, while increasing serotonin and dopamine, two brain chemicals that help regulate mood and sleep-wake cycles. This combination creates the perfect conditions for better sleep.
Several studies back up these effects:
- A study published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing found that massage improved sleep quality in patients with heart conditions, helping them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
- Research on ICU patients showed that slow back massage improved sleep duration and reduced night-time awakenings.
- Another study found that massage therapy helped improve sleep in postmenopausal women by reducing insomnia and boosting relaxation.
- Research from Türkiye highlighted that massage had positive effects on sleep in older adults, improving both quality and duration of rest.
With growing scientific support, massage therapy is now recognised as one of the most promising natural sleep remedies, offering benefits for both body and mind.
7 benefits of massage in sleeping (and types of massage to try)
Massage offers a powerful, natural way to improve sleep by addressing both physical and emotional triggers that disrupt rest. Here’s a deep dive into how it works and which massage types can help the most.
1. Reduces stress and anxiety
Stress is one of the leading reasons people struggle to sleep. When stress hits, cortisol levels rise, leaving you feeling alert and unable to wind down. Massage helps lower cortisol while boosting serotonin and dopamine, shifting the body into a calm, restful state. This makes it much easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Best types: Swedish massage, aromatherapy massage, relaxation massage
2. Eases muscle tension and pain
Aches, tight muscles, or chronic pain can make it hard to get comfortable in bed. Massage works to release muscle knots, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness, setting the stage for pain-free rest. For those dealing with conditions like back pain, fibromyalgia, or arthritis, massage can help break the cycle of discomfort that interrupts sleep.
Best types: Remedial massage, deep tissue massage
3. Improves circulation
Good circulation helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and tissues, supporting healing and relaxation. Massage increases blood flow, reduces swelling, and flushes out waste like lactic acid, which helps you feel physically at ease. Better circulation can also reduce the tingling or numbness that sometimes disrupts sleep, especially after long hours on your feet.
Best types: Sports massage, relaxation massage
4. Balances hormones linked to sleep
Serotonin is vital for regulating your body’s internal clock and is a key ingredient in the production of melatonin, the hormone that controls sleep. Massage helps raise serotonin levels naturally, promoting better regulation of sleep-wake cycles and improving overall sleep patterns.
Best types: Swedish massage, aromatherapy massage
5. Helps with restless leg syndrome and night cramps
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) and night cramps can lead to repeated sleep disruptions. Massage improves blood flow, calms overactive nerves, and relaxes muscles, which helps ease the discomfort of RLS and reduce the chances of cramping overnight.
Best types: Remedial massage, deep tissue massage
6. Supports sleep in seniors
Older adults often experience lighter sleep or more frequent awakenings, sometimes due to chronic pain or reduced mobility. Massage can ease aches, enhance joint flexibility, and encourage deep relaxation, making it easier for seniors to achieve more restful sleep. Family members or carers can also help by arranging gentle professional massage sessions for added comfort.
Best types: Relaxation massage, Swedish massage
7. Promotes better sleep in children
Massage can be especially helpful for children who struggle with sleep, including those with autism or ADHD. Gentle massage calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and helps children relax into a bedtime routine. Parents may also try light hand or back massages to create a soothing pre-sleep environment.
Best types: Relaxation massage, Swedish massage
Book your Blys massage today and discover how it can transform your nights. And if you’re looking to help someone you care about sleep better, consider giving them the gift of relaxation with a Blys massage gift voucher.
How to book with Blys massage
Booking a massage to improve your sleep has never been easier, thanks to Blys. You can arrange a professional massage in the comfort of your own home, at a time that suits your schedule — no stress, no travel, just pure relaxation.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Book: Choose your preferred massage treatment, set your location, and pick a date and time that works for you. You can book directly through the Blys website or app.
Step 2: Connect: Once you place your booking, Blys shares it with a network of trusted providers in your area. You’ll receive a confirmation as soon as your booking is accepted by a qualified massage therapist.
Step 3: Meet: Get ready to relax! Your massage provider will arrive at your location, set up their table, and deliver a personalised treatment designed to help you unwind and sleep better.
Blys offers a wide range of massage options perfect for improving sleep, including Swedish, remedial, deep tissue, sports, aromatherapy, and relaxation massage. You can even treat yourself to a couples massage for a shared experience of relaxation.
Want to help a friend or family member sleep better too? You can also buy a Blys gift voucher, a thoughtful gift that lets someone special enjoy the benefits of an in-home massage at their convenience.
Conclusion
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for your physical health, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life. While there are plenty of remedies out there, massage stands out as one of the most natural and enjoyable ways to improve sleep. From easing muscle tension and calming anxiety to balancing hormones and improving circulation, massage offers benefits that go beyond what many other sleep aids can provide.
Whether you’re dealing with occasional restlessness, chronic insomnia, or just want to enjoy deeper, more refreshing sleep, massage can be a powerful part of your nightly routine. Best of all, you don’t have to leave the house to experience these benefits.With Blys, you can enjoy a professional massage in the comfort of your own home, making it easy to prioritise your sleep health without the hassle of travelling to a clinic or spa.
