How Times of Crisis Resurfaced the Need for Human Touch

~ The Pandemic, Human Touch, and the Reawakening of Massage Therapy ~

During the global pandemic of 2019, many people began to rediscover the essential benefits of massage therapy. As lockdowns and isolation became the norm, countless individuals found themselves deprived of one of the most basic human needs: touch. While safety precautions were necessary, the absence of human connection had profound effects on our emotional and physical well-being.

Interestingly, this period echoed some of the social fears experienced during the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s — a time when touch was similarly feared due to misunderstandings and widespread panic. In both cases, uncertainty led to social distancing and stigmas surrounding close contact. But over time, as people began to reconnect, visit public spaces, and feel safer in one another’s company, it became clear that touch plays a critical role in human health — not just emotionally, but energetically.

Touch facilitates more than just comfort. Through contact, we exchange subtle energies — protons, photons, electrons — that may influence our immunity and emotional resilience. As this awareness grew, more people began seeking therapeutic forms of touch, including massage therapy. Not only did long-time clients return to their massage therapists for overall wellness, but many newcomers also began exploring massage as a safe, healing, and professional service.

As we've shared in previous blog posts, Swedish Massage — often considered the foundation of massage therapy — is a technique that promotes healthy blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. This circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients, not just to muscles, but to all tissues, helping to nourish and balance the body. When muscles are warm, blood flows more freely, and tensions begin to release. As the therapist works to encourage circulation, the veins carry metabolic waste back toward the heart, where it can be processed and eliminated by the body’s natural systems — including the respiratory system.

The human body is incredibly complex, and yet, it's amazing how much we overlook when it comes to our own care. Even though our bodies are designed to endure and sustain a great deal, it’s often easy to take that resilience for granted. We may not realize how much care our bodies need until it’s too late — or until we find ourselves in a compromised state, dealing with discomfort, stress, or preventable health issues. This isn’t about judgment — we’re all learning, growing, and this is a wonderful opportunity to discover new things, no matter our background or experience.

If you know someone who’s still hesitant to try massage therapy, consider sharing your experience or inviting them to learn more. For some, the idea of being touched may still feel intimidating — and that’s okay. A skilled massage therapist will take the time to explain each technique and ensure the client feels safe, respected, and informed throughout the session.

We encourage you to explore more on our blog, or invite a friend to book a session. You might just help someone begin their journey toward healing, self-care, and renewed connection.