The Joys of Getting a Massage at a Music Festival

Massage Therapy Winchester treatment tent set up and ready for clients at End of the Road Festival.

 Imagine this: you're at a music festival, surrounded by the vibrant sounds of your favorite bands, the energy of fellow festival-goers, and the summer sun shining down. Amidst all the excitement, there's a delightful escape waiting for you—an invigorating massage experience that enhances your festival adventure.

I first started volunteering as a steward at the Larmer Tree Festival in Wiltshire back in 2003. This is a great way to be at a festival and to be part of it. We would work for 5-6 hours a shift for 3 days, checking wristbands and patrolling areas. You got your wristband for the festival and camping without having to pay for the ticket.

I had always been interested in being a Reflexologist and massage therapist but was put off because I thought all therapists had to work in white, sterile clinics. But this impression was blown out of the water after my first visit to Larmer Tree. I discovered the Secret Garden Healing area, where 25 therapists of all ages, experiences offering a variety of treatments where working in yurts, bell tents, shepherd huts and tents. After trying several treatments and talking to many therapists I found that they worked in the real world from a variety of workspaces such as sheds, boats, gyms and clinics. All professional and to a high standard but hardly any from white sterile clinics!

Since I qualified as a massage therapist in 2008, I have worked from home in a lovely wooden cabin, and during the summers, I have offered treatment from a 3m x 3m tent in a field at festivals such as Larmer Tree, End of the Road, Cornbury, and Beautiful Days.

Let's explore the joys of indulging in a massage at a music festival and how it can elevate your entire experience.

A Relaxing Oasis Amidst the Festival Buzz

Music festivals are renowned for their exhilarating atmosphere and back-to-back performances, which can be both thrilling and tiring. Nestled within this bustling excitement, you will find a version of a Secret Garden Healing area where a series of assorted massage tents offers a haven where you can unwind and recharge. Whether you choose a quick chair massage or a full-body treatment, stepping into this tranquil space provides a welcome break from the festivities.

Rejuvenate Your Body and Mind

Dancing for hours, standing in crowds, taking part in the silent disco till the early hours and exploring the festival grounds can take a toll on your body. If you have a step counter you will be pleasantly surprised at just how many steps you rack up when wandering around a festival.  A professional massage works wonders for relieving muscle tension, reducing fatigue, and rejuvenating your spirit. It allows you to reset, ensuring you're ready to dive back into the festival with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Plus, the soothing touch and calming atmosphere can enhance your overall sense of well-being, making every moment more enjoyable. You can relax on your massage couch and listen to the festival sounds in the background.

Enhance Your Sensory Experience

Music festivals are a feast for the senses, and adding a massage to the mix takes it to another level. As you relax during the massage, you can still hear the distant sounds of live music, or a lot closer as at some festivals the healing area can be just 60m from a stage! I have had clients vibrating on my couch from the strong bass coming from the stage! Most of the time clients fall asleep during a band when they are having a treatment.  The combination of music and touch therapy can elevate your mood, leaving you with a blissful sense of contentment that complements your love for music and adventure.

Taking time for yourself

I find that clients who are normally too busy to book a massage in their ‘normal busy lives’ find the time for themselves when they are at a music festival. Normally you are juggling work, family, chores, exercise times, and often school runs in a normal day but when at a festival the normal things that fill your day and time are not there. You have time for a massage, and it provides a precious opportunity to be present, focus on yourself, and truly savour the moment.

I have often heard on the other side of the hedge from my therapy tent, many a mum tell her husband that she will ‘only be an hour’ and that he will be fine with the kids. Then when she comes into my tent, her shoes are tucked inside so no-one outside can work out who is inside from their shoes left by the door! Then they thoroughly enjoy their hour of ‘me’ time without any interruptions.  As you let go of daily stresses and distractions, you open yourself up to a more immersive festival experience, appreciating everything going on around you, the comedy, the music performances, the classes to explore and connection with the people around you.

Get your session booked in as soon as you get to the festival, or even in advance!

Adding a massage into your music festival itinerary is a delightful way to enhance both your physical well-being and your overall experience. It offers a moment of peace, rejuvenation, and connection, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festival magic.  But make sure booking your treatment time is one of the first things you do when you arrive at the festival as therapists get booked up quickly. Often there is a Facebook page for the Healing area or a link on the festival website, allowing you to book beforehand or directly with your favourite therapist. So, next time you find yourself at a music festival, don't miss the chance to indulge in the joy of a festival massage—your body, mind, and soul will thank you!