Body Memories: Unlocking the Stories Stored in Your Muscles

Interview with Liam Torres, massage therapist with 15 years of experience

🔍 Did you know your body holds on to more than just tension? It remembers moments, emotions, and even traumas. In this fascinating interview, massage therapist Liam Torres shares how our muscles store memories — and what we can do to listen.

Q: Liam, you often say “the body remembers.” What do you mean by that?
Liam:
Most people think massage is only about relaxing tight muscles. But in truth, our bodies are living archives. Every emotion we suppress, every time we “power through” stress — it doesn’t vanish. It settles somewhere: in our shoulders, hips, neck. I've had clients burst into tears during a session, not because of pain, but because touch can release emotional tension they didn’t even realize was there.

Q: That sounds like something between therapy and bodywork.
Liam:
Exactly. It’s not psychotherapy, but it’s deeply connected. Our nervous system and muscles are part of the same story. When I gently release tension from someone’s back, I might be helping them breathe easier — literally and emotionally.

Q: Can you give us a lesser-known fact about muscles?
Liam:
Sure. Here’s one: fascia — the connective tissue around muscles — can contract independently of the muscles themselves. If you’ve ever felt “stiff” after stress or emotion, it’s likely your fascia reacting, not just your muscles.

Q: So how can people “unlock” their bodies in daily life?
Liam:
Start simple: stretch mindfully, breathe slowly, touch your body with awareness. Even placing your hands over your heart or belly with kindness for a few moments can help release tension. Your body is listening — always.

Q: And one last surprising fact?
Liam:
Your muscles don’t actually grow during exercise. They grow when you rest. Which is nature’s gentle reminder: growth happens in stillness. That applies to healing, too.

So next time your shoulders feel heavy, or your jaw tenses up — pause. Your body might be trying to tell you something. Listen.