Pre-Holiday Stress: Why a Massage Should Be on Your Checklist Before You Jet Off

The days leading up to a holiday should be filled with excitement, not exhaustion. Yet, for many of us, the scramble to clear workloads, organise handovers, and tie up loose ends leaves us more drained than before we booked the trip.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. The irony is that we often arrive at our destination tense, fatigued, and in need of another break just to recover from the pre-holiday chaos. But what if there was a way to transition smoothly from work mode to relaxation mode?

The Hidden Toll of Pre-Holiday Stress

Rushing to meet deadlines, delegating tasks, and ensuring everything runs smoothly in your absence can take a physical and mental toll. Shoulders tighten, headaches creep in, and sleep suffers—just when you should be winding down. This buildup of tension can linger into your holiday, making it harder to switch off and enjoy your time away.

How Massage Can Help

A holistic massage before you leave can be the perfect reset button. Here’s why:

• Relieves Physical Tension – Hours spent hunched over a laptop or rushing between meetings lead to muscle stiffness. A targeted massage eases knots, improves circulation, and helps your body unwind.

• Calms the Mind – Stress isn’t just physical; mental overwhelm can leave you feeling frazzled. A massage encourages deep relaxation, slowing racing thoughts and helping you mentally detach from work.

• Boosts Sleep Quality – Pre-holiday stress often disrupts sleep. A massage promotes serotonin release, aiding better rest so you’re refreshed before your trip.

• Prepares You for True Relaxation – Instead of spending the first few days of your holiday decompressing, a massage helps you arrive in a more relaxed state, ready to enjoy your break from the moment you step off the plane.

An Inclusive, Welcoming Space

As a LGBTQ+ friendly therapist, my practice is open to all—because everyone deserves to feel comfortable, respected, and at ease when seeking relaxation. Whether you’re looking for deep tissue work, gentle stress relief, or simply a quiet moment to unwind, my focus is on providing a safe, professional, and judgement-free experience.

Make Time for Yourself Before You Go

Before you pack your suitcase, consider booking a massage to ease the transition from work stress to holiday calm. Your body—and your future self—will thank you.