National Massage Therapy Awareness Week

National Massage Therapy Awareness Week takes place October 25–31 in 2026. The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) describes it as a dedicated week for massage therapists across the U.S. to promote massage therapy and its health and wellness benefits to clients and communities. It’s also a chance to recognize the profession and learn more about massage therapy.

How the observance started

The exact origin of National Massage Therapy Awareness Week is not well documented. AMTA identifies 2026 as the observance’s 30th annual week, but does not say who started it or explain why it began.

AMTA encourages massage therapists to use the week to educate their communities about massage therapy, share information and promote their practices. The observance can also give people an opportunity to learn about the profession and ask questions about massage therapy.

What massage therapy is—and what it isn’t

Massage therapy generally involves hands-on work with the body’s soft tissues, such as muscles and connective tissue. Practitioners may use different techniques, and the style of a session can vary according to the therapist’s training, the client’s preferences, and the purpose of the visit. A professional session should include clear communication and respect for personal boundaries.

Massage is not the same experience for everyone, and it should not be presented as a guaranteed cure for a health condition. If you have an injury, ongoing pain, a medical condition, or questions about whether massage is suitable for you, consider checking with a qualified health professional. A massage therapist can also discuss their training, the methods they use, and any situations in which they may recommend seeking other care.

For clients, feeling comfortable enough to speak up is an important part of the experience. You can ask what to expect, share preferences about pressure, and request changes or stop a session at any time. A responsible practitioner will welcome questions and explain how consent and privacy are handled.

Ways to take part

Whether or not you book a session, there are easy ways to mark National Massage Therapy Awareness Week:

• Learn about the profession. Find out what training and credentials are expected where you live, since requirements can vary by location.
• Ask thoughtful questions. If you’re considering a session, ask about the therapist’s qualifications, approach, pricing, and what you should do to prepare.
• Talk about comfort and consent. Share any relevant health concerns and preferences before a session, and remember that you can ask for adjustments at any time.
• Show appreciation. Thank a massage therapist for their care and professionalism, or leave a considerate review if you’ve had a positive experience.
• Explore other ways to unwind. Try gentle stretching, a warm bath, or a quiet break—simple moments of care can be part of a wellness routine, with or without massage.

This page is for general awareness and isn't medical advice. For questions about your own health, talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on October 25, 2026 · Last updated October 25, 2026.

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