Have you given or received a hug today? Held hands with someone dear? Cuddled a sleepy child? In our world of fast technology, we forget how powerful and essential human touch is.
Physical contact–a basic human need–strengthens emotional and mental well-being by generating “feel-good” brain chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin, fostering optimism and calmness. Impressive benefits include reduced tension, lower blood pressure, and boosted immunity. If everyday physical touch is such a gift, imagine how intentional therapeutic touch could help! A 2021 study from Baylor University found that 92% of participants reported reduced pain and improved well-being after receiving trained therapeutic touch, like massage therapy, which honors the body’s natural ability to heal.
“Massage can be a powerful medical treatment,” explains Hannah Crawford of Massage with a Message. “Easing muscle tension, addressing post-surgical recovery, or helping with stress, the goal is always healing and comfort.” Hannah emphasizes that professional massage therapy is a respectful healthcare service, provided by licensed therapists committed to client privacy. Only the area being treated is uncovered during a session; the rest of the body remains covered for warmth and modesty. Hannah notes that not every therapeutic massage requires disrobing. Her 30-minute chair massage, performed with the client fully clothed, eases tension in the neck, shoulders, and back to relieve headaches, pain, and spasms, even during a lunch hour! “No two people are alike, so no two massage sessions should be exactly the same,” Hannah says. 
She is dedicated to relieving pain by tailoring sessions to the present needs of each client in a safe, respectful environment.
At Daisiescapes, Jennifer Haviland brings an integrative perspective to her practice by blending her nursing background with massage therapy. She views therapeutic touch as preventive healthcare, inspired by the quote: “If you don’t make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness.” Massage therapy not only relieves stress and muscle tension, it also offers support during the healing process. “Time and again,” Jennifer says, “I’ve seen how a simple back massage can ease post-operative discomfort—sometimes more effectively than medication and certainly with fewer side effects.” Her experience underpins massage therapy as an essential component of healthcare, not an extravagance. In addition to using hot stones, Jennifer offers Raindrop Massage, combining essential oils and light touch, that blends Eastern and Western models to rejuvenate mind and body. Jennifer is grateful to combine her knowledge and experience to help clients heal and achieve wellness.
Jessica Powell, of Ivy Creek Wellness & Massage, is passionate about massage methods grounded in advanced training to reduce pain and enhance health. “Lymphatic drainage is ideal for surgery recovery, relieving inflammation and fluid retention, and supporting immunity,” Jessica explains. “It’s a calming, non-invasive way to promote the body’s natural detoxification process.” Jessica is also trained in myofascial release which uses slow, sustained pressure to address restrictions in fascia—connective tissue surrounding muscles and organs–easing chronic tension, improving mobility, and correcting posture. She approaches sessions with skill and enthusiasm, recalling comforting backrubs she received as a child from her grandmother. “Taking care of people takes care of me,” she says. “I really enjoy it.” That passion translates into Jessica’s practice, where, through very personalized care, she supports clients at every stage of their wellness journey—whether they are recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or seeking relaxation and improved health.
Technology puts information at our fingertips, but the gift of human touch is the most accessible form of healing. From a simple hug to skilled hands of a licensed massage therapist, touch restores balance, eases pain and sustains well-being. The professional therapists mentioned here are in our Broadway area, ready to share this gift. Bring self-care into healthcare, one healing touch at a time!
