Clinical Massage benefits for the emotional and physical symptoms of Grief.

Grief is something we all experience at some stage in our lives in various ways, and is something that has come up in clinic a lot over the years. We understand from the research presented by grief expert Mary-Frances O’Connor in her two profound books: Grieving Brain (2022) and Grieving body (2025) how we experience emotional pain as well as the physical impact grief can have on our bodies.

Chronic stress protocol in clinic with Bethany Wynn

O’Connor mentions ‘The stress of bereavement can become a chronic stress’ which makes our systems work in that ‘fight or flight’ mode chronically, causing us both physical and mental tensions and fatigue.

Throughout my studies at the Jing Institute in Brighton, we explore the Jing method of Advanced Clinical Massage techniques. This is a combination of Myofascial Release, Trigger point work, Amma fusion, stretching and acupressure points that are all used on our clients with chronic pain and stress.

Within my clinic, I specialise in the use of the Chronic stress protocol provided by the Jing method to support clients who are suffering with chronic stress because of loss and bereavement.

The Physical Manifestations of Grief:

The loss of a loved one can manifest within our bodies physically, leading to a chronic pain and tensions. According to a study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research (Lundorff et al., 2017), bereaved individuals commonly report:

·      Chronic muscular tension, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back

·      Persistent headaches or migraines

·      Gastrointestinal complaints, such as appetite changes and irritable bowel syndrome

·      Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns

·      Fatigue and reduced energy levels

·      Lowered immune function, increasing susceptibility to illness

Research conducted by Stroebe and colleagues (2007) has shown that grief-related stress can elevate cortisol levels. By supporting these symptoms sooner, we are taking care of our bodies from a more prolonged effect.

Emotional manifestation of Grief:

From my own experience with Grief from a young age, we were taught to look at the 5 stages of grief as this ‘how to survive’ guide. Since proven outdated, we can understand that the emotional manifestations of grief can show up in so many ways. Mind Charity (2026) explain what grief feels like as:

-              Sadness or depression

-              Numbness, denial or disbelief

-              Confusion

-              Anger

-              Anxiety or panic

-              Overwhelm

-              Relief

I don’t think there is any right or wrong way to grieve, and I personally feel its something we must go through and not try to fix. Cruse, the Bereavement charity introduce us to the five stages of grief model, developed by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in 1969 and explain how Elisabeth mentions in her book ‘Death and Dying, 1969’ that stages of grief are not linear. The extensive research into the 5 stages and Grief generally allow us to explore the more in-depth ways we grieve.

Clinical Massage and Grief:

Using the Jing method Chronic stress protocol, mindfully bringing together slow and intentional advanced techniques, combined with Myofascial release and acupressure points to support the nervous system. From the aches and pains we may experience in the throes of grief, to the emotional overwhelm we encounter in the days, months, years after the passing of a loved one. In my clinical experience, this protocol of techniques has been able to support someone to ease, soften and even take stock just for that hour and beyond.

Key Elements of Clinical Massage in Grief support

·      Throughout consultation and assessment to create a tailored treatment for you

·      Targeted Techniques, using an array of advanced massage techniques to support and hold the space

·      Biopsychosocial model approach, treatment considers the interplay between physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Research Evidence: Clinical Massage and Grief

In the spring of 2026, I will be looking to launch my 20-week research project into how clinical massage can support our emotional and physical wellbeing when we have lost a loved one. Whilst pending my ethical approval, I’ve been keen to delve into the current research out there for us to understand together. Whilst I know this work supports, having had clinical massage support throughout the loss of my Nana and Dad, reading the science and research behind it is truly fascinating.

A randomised controlled trial published in International Journal of Neuroscience (Field et al., 2005) found that massage therapy significantly decreased muscle pain and tension among participants experiencing chronic stress. This is something we see a lot in those who have lost a loved one.

(Buckley, T, et al. 2012) shares with us their controlled study on the physiological corelation of bereavement and the impact of bereavement interventions. This study recognises the death of a loved one is one of life's greatest stresses and has long been associated with increased health risk.

When to Consider Clinical Massage

Whilst clinical massage shouldn’t be the main support for you. As a Clinical massage therapist who is trauma informed and has experienced profound anticipatory grief, I always recommend speaking with a talking therapist or your healthcare provider for further support. Alongside this, Clinical massage can support the symptoms associated with grief, both physical and emotional.

Grief is a multifaceted experience, affecting both mind and body. Backed by scientific research, clinical massage therapy stands as a compassionate ally in the journey toward healing.  Supporting physical and emotional symptoms by means of clinical massage can support with resorting balance and overall calm whilst we navigate through the journey of grief.

The power of touch is so profound and I’m a firm believer that grief is something we should journey through, but you don’t have to do it alone.

If you are interested in being a part of a clinical research project spanning 20 weeks, 6 weeks of which will be hands on, I will be looking to take interest forms through the spring. As mentioned once ethically approved I will be launched a campaign to get the word out to support as many people as I can and champion the mentioned research so that there is a deeper understanding and care taken for the people who are navigating loss.

In the meantime, please feel free to follow me on Instagram @wynnmassage where I share content on Clinical massage and Grief.

Bethany Wynn ACMT, BTEC 6