Are you highly sensitive? Book a mindful massage today (please)
I’m highly sensitive and have had a number of clients who identify as highly sensitive people (HSPs) too.
Massage is incredibly beneficial for us HSPs. We process stimuli deeply and often experience heightened sensitivity to our environment. Spun positively, we have deeply attuned nervous system, making us more responsive to sensory input, emotions, and social dynamics. However, our nervous systems require a lot more fine-tuning and care and we really need to be on top of our ‘healthy stress management’ game.
Massage can provide a safe, grounding experience to help us regulate our nervous systems and restore balance.
Some HSP traits include:
Deep processing: HSPs think deeply and reflect on experiences more than others
Heightened emotional sensitivity: We feel emotions intensely and can absorb the emotions of others
Sensitivity to stimuli: Bright lights, strong scents, noise, or rough textures can feel overwhelming
Easily overstimulated: Too much sensory input or social interaction can lead to exhaustion
Strong intuition and empathy: We are highly attuned to subtleties and the needs of others
Mindful massage HSPs manage their sensitivity and restore balance:
Nervous system regulation: HSPs often operate in a heightened state of arousal due to our deep processing of stimuli. Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system (the "rest and digest" response), helping to lower stress hormones and bring the body into a calm, relaxed state.
Emotional Release and Grounding: Because HSPs hold onto emotions deeply, massage offers a safe, wordless way to release tension and stored emotions. Gentle touch can provide comfort, reassurance, and a sense of being nurtured.
Relief from sensory overload: For those overwhelmed by constant input, massage creates a structured and predictable sensory experience that feels soothing rather than overstimulating. The warmth of hands, the rhythm of strokes, and the quiet environment can feel like a sanctuary.
Enhanced Mind-Body Connection: HSPs can become mentally overstimulated, losing touch with our physical body. Massage helps us feel present in our bodies, fostering a sense of grounding and self-awareness.
Improved Sleep and Energy Levels: Because HSPs often struggle with overstimulation, we may experience sleep disturbances. Massage can help calm our nervous system, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep.
Why a mindful massage with me is worth it if you’re HSP:
I put time and consideration into our communication - before, during and after your session. I provide time and space for you to articulate your needs and ask for what you want.
I work slowly (extra slow with HSPs) and rhythmically and I stay alert to how your body responds to the bodywork you are receiving.
We consider the depth and pressure and all the fine details together - and this changes from session to session depending on how your nervous system is doing in this busy, over stimulating world
We talk through your preferences when it comes to scents, sounds, oil textures, room temperature, linen, and all the things you may have heightened awareness of. We go with what you like and ditch anything you don’t. The point of us working together is to create a pleasurable experience, which your nervous system will love and appreciate.
Lighting is natural by day and by candle light at night. We take care with ensuring continuity of calm from the minute you walk in to when you leave.
I have self care tools and daily practices I would love to share with you.
This is not a luxury or indulgent experience
For HSPs, massage isn't just a luxury—it’s a powerful tool for managing sensory input, emotional wellbeing, and overall resilience. A skilled massage practitioner who understands sensitivity can create a deeply nurturing experience that allows HSPs to truly unwind and recharge.
If you’re highly sensitive (or neurodivergent in any way) - let me know! A mindful massage session with me is about you, your unique ways of being in the world and what you need from our time together.