Finding Peace in Change: How Massage and Energy Healing Reset the Nervous System
- Therese Livella
- Aug 29
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 24
Change, even when positive, can feel unsettling. A move, a new job, shifting relationships, or simply navigating an uncertain world — all can stir the nervous system into overdrive. You may notice your shoulders tighten, your sleep grow restless, or your thoughts run endlessly.
As women, we often carry these transitions in silence, prioritizing others’ needs above our own. But within nature’s rhythms and ancient healing practices lies a reminder: our bodies are wired to return to balance.
Massage and energy healing provide pathways back to peace — not only soothing muscles, but also gently guiding the nervous system into states of safety, renewal, and strength.
The Physiology of Stress
The nervous system is a finely tuned orchestra, balancing between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) states. Stress and change often keep us locked in sympathetic dominance — increased heart rate, tense muscles, shallow breath. Over time, this contributes to chronic pain, digestive upset, and even weakened immunity (Harvard Health Publishing, 2020).
Healing modalities like massage and energy work help activate the parasympathetic response, lowering cortisol, enhancing serotonin, and inviting the body to restore balance.
Swedish Massage: Gentle Rhythms of Renewal
Massage therapy is known to improve blood circulation. Eco-Lux techniques often focus on gentle strokes that stimulate blood flow.
Known for its long, flowing strokes, Swedish massage is a grounding modality that promotes relaxation at every level. Research shows massage therapy:
Reduces muscle tension.
Enhances circulation.
Decreases cortisol levels.
Improves overall mood (Moyer et al., Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2011).
For women navigating transitions, Swedish massage offers a safe, nurturing environment where the nervous system can shift from vigilance to calm presence.
Hot Stone Massage: Fire and Earth Together
The placement of warm stones along the spine or limbs is not only comforting, it communicates safety at a primal level. The heat penetrates deep tissues, reduces stiffness, and encourages muscles to lengthen.
Thermal therapies have been shown to reduce sympathetic nervous system activity and promote parasympathetic dominance (Kovacs et al., Clinical Journal of Pain, 2012). In essence, the stones whisper to the body: You are safe. You can rest now.
Reiki and Shamanic Healing: Healing Beyond the Physical
While massage addresses the physical body, energy healing works on the subtle and spiritual layers where stress often lodges.
Reiki: Gentle hand placements encourage energetic balance, reduce anxiety, and support a meditative state. Clinical trials suggest Reiki can help reduce stress, improve mood, and support nervous system regulation (McManus, Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 2017).
Shamanic Healing: Rooted in ancient traditions, shamanic practices help release energetic burdens and restore soul alignment. In times of upheaval, this can feel like coming home to oneself.
Together, these practices not only soothe the body but also restore the spirit, helping women find strength within change.
A Holistic Reset Ritual for Finding Peace in Change
Pre Appointment
When scheduling your appointment, it is important to set the stage for the healing to begin. Block time in your schedule to allow for calm, quiet space after the massage or energy healing.
While driving to or preparing for your appointment, turn off the news. Put on some calming music. Take a moment to breathe and relax before your session begins.
Consultation
Your therapist at Harvest of Peace will conduct a brief consultation to understand your needs and preferences. This is a great time to discuss any areas of tension, discomfort or what you are hoping to receive from the session. Together, you and Therese will make a plan to guide the healing session.
The Session
During a hands-on massage, you can expect a combination of techniques tailored to your needs. The therapist will use organic oils and may incorporate aromatherapy to enhance your experience. We generally specialize in light to medium pressure, so if you need more just let us know.
For distance healing sessions, your practitioner will meet with you either over the phone or over Zoom. You should set your space to be uninterrupted for at least the duration of the session.
Aftercare
After your session, take some time to relax and hydrate. Your therapist may provide customized recommendations for stretches or self-care practices to continue the benefits of the massage. A warm Epsom salt bath is always a great choice. So is spending time in nature or by a warm fire.
Final Thoughts
Change is inevitable, but suffering doesn’t have to be. By resetting the nervous system through massage and energy healing, we align with the deeper rhythms of life — the wisdom of the body, the cycles of nature, the resilience of the spirit.
🌿 If you find yourself in a season of change, may this be your reminder: healing is possible, and you don’t have to walk the path alone.
👉 Book your session at Harvest of Peace and allow your nervous system the reset it longs for.
Embrace finding peace in change and let Harvest of Peace massage therapy and energy healing guide you toward a more balanced and harmonious life.
Bibliography
Harvard Health Publishing. Understanding the stress response. 2020.
Moyer, C. et al. Does massage therapy reduce cortisol? A comprehensive quantitative review. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2011.
Kovacs, F. et al. Thermotherapy for low back pain. Clinical Journal of Pain. 2012.
McManus, D. Reiki Is Better Than Placebo and Has Broad Potential as a Complementary Health Therapy. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine. 2017.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Reiki: In Depth. 2021.
American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). Massage Therapy in Integrative Care & Pain Management. 2019.
