Rachel Richards

licensed massage therapist

east village, nyc

Massage for Anxiety, Stress, and Emotional Well-Being in New York City

If you're feeling anxious, stressed, emotionally overwhelmed, or burnt out, therapeutic massage can help calm the nervous system, release physical tension, and create space for your body to reset. Many clients come in not just for pain, but because stress is showing up physically and emotionally.

Massage is not a cure for anxiety or depression, but it can be a powerful, supportive tool for managing their physical and emotional effects.

How stress and anxiety show up in the body

Stress and emotional strain often appear physically as:

  • Tight neck, shoulders, and jaw
  • Shallow breathing or chest tightness
  • Headaches or pressure behind the eyes
  • Digestive discomfort
  • Restlessness, fatigue, or feeling "on edge"
  • Trouble fully relaxing, even at rest
  • General muscle soreness
  • Lower back pain

These symptoms are real physical responses, not "just in your head."

How therapeutic massage can help

Massage can support emotional well-being by:

  • Calming the nervous system
  • Relieving muscle tension linked to chronic stress
  • Encouraging slower, deeper breathing
  • Helping the body feel safe enough to relax
  • Reducing the physical load of long-term stress
  • Improving sleep
  • Reducing aches and pains
  • Boosting mood

For many clients, this creates a noticeable sense of calm both during and after the session.

A calm, supportive approach

Sessions focused on stress and anxiety are:

  • Gentle, grounded, and unrushed
  • Adjusted to your comfort level and sensitivity
  • Conducted in a quiet, tranquil setting
  • Free of pressure to talk unless you want to

You're welcome to be silent, breathe, or simply rest.

Who this is especially helpful for

  • People dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed
  • Clients with overactive minds or racing thoughts
  • People with anxiety causing poor sleep or insomnia
  • Clients experiencing low mood, burnout, or depression
  • Caregivers, parents, and professionals under constant pressure
  • Anyone who feels disconnected from their body due to stress

Massage can be especially helpful whether stress has been ongoing or occasional.

Important note

Therapeutic massage is a complementary wellness practice and does not replace mental health care. If you are experiencing severe or persistent anxiety or depression, massage is beneficial alongside therapy, medical care, or other professional support.

Many clients find that combining approaches helps them feel more grounded and resilient.

Location & booking

I'm located on the east side in Manhattan, easily accessible from Union Square and surrounding neighborhoods. Appointments are scheduled in advance. Call, text, or email to book a session or to discuss whether this type of massage is right for you.



Call or text me today
917-359-8641

I'd be happy to answer
any questions you have!

Massage@Rachel-Richards.com


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American Massage Therapy Association

Swedish InstituteCertified Myoskeletal TherapistNational Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork


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