Between back-to-back classes, late-night study sessions and the stress of balancing it all, University of Miami students carry more tension than their backpacks. Enter massage therapy — the underrated remedy for knots, both physical and mental. Whether it’s a deep tissue session to undo hours hunched over a laptop or a quick relaxation massage between exams, a little hands-on relief might be just what overworked students need to reset and recharge.
Massages promote relaxation, and their advantages extend beyond stress relief. The benefits of a massage include reduced muscle tension, better quality of sleep, a boosted immune system and even improved digestion. On the mental health side, massages can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and well-being, as well as increase alertness and focus, something that would be helpful for passing rigorous classes UM offers.
Christine Kumpf, masseuse and physical therapist at Ederra Beauty Concepts, discussed the transformation and popularization massages have undergone.
“In my 20 years as a licensed massage therapist, I’ve witnessed the evolution of the practice,” said Kumpf. “Today, it is considered a ‘mainstream’ part of health and wellness, and accepted widely by the medical world.”
Becoming a vital part of overall health, massages are safe and effective for all ages.
“From prenatal, to children in sports, to college students, adults, those even in hospice, the benefits are plenty. It has an impact on almost every system of the body, such as the musculoskeletal, lymphatic, circulatory, digestive and especially the nervous system,” said Kumpf.
Jamilleth Elizalde, client coordinator of Hydrology Wellness Spa in Coral Gables, said she understands how essential massages are for human growth and comfort.
“We at Hydrology believe in ‘ageless living — not about preventing aging but about embracing the aging process gracefully while prioritizing one’s overall well-being and vitality,” said Elizalde.
Hydrology strives to make clients feel as beautiful and relaxed as they are. Hydrology is a short walk across the street from campus at The THesis Hotel and Residences, offering over 50 services, making it the perfect choice for students to stop in for a quick massage between classes or after a long week of exams.
The local spa offers a myriad of different massages, including deep tissue, prenatal, sports, lymphatic drainage, Swedish and theragun. Sessions can last for 60, 90 or 120 minutes and are sold in packs of 1, 5, 10 or 15. For those seeking a frequent means of winding down or taking the edge off, Hydrology has custom membership packages. Simply schedule a consultation and their team will help you determine what package is right for you.
“Along with being a wellness center, we have created a full spa ambiance, offering health services such as an infrared sauna, cryotherapy, IV therapy and compression therapy,” said Jamilleth. “On the other hand, if you are looking to ‘glow-up,’ stop in for beauty services like botox, micro needling, fillers, hydra facials, chemical peels and hair removals.”
UM athletes, including the Hurricanes football team, visit Hydrology for recovery days, taking advantage of all the center’s health and wellness services. Students who are highly active are great candidates for a sports massage; however, athleticism is not a requirement for rejuvenation. .
Freshman Ella Corigliano said she enjoys treating herself to a spa day every once in a while, adding that her favorite place to get a massage is The Ritz-Carlton in South Beach.
“I love to pamper myself. Being a nursing major, memorizing the body and doubling up on tough classes like anatomy definitely call for a massage,” said Corigliano. “Whenever my mom comes to visit, we always have a spa day together. It is so nice to be able to relax and unwind.”
Junior Paige Spoors said she gets her massages at Setai Spa and Lifetime Spa.
“Living in Lifetime makes it really easy to get a relaxing massage whenever I feel like it. If I had a rough week, I know I can just book an appointment and unwind,” said Spoors. “Or if I want to plan a whole day of relaxation, I take a trip to Setai Spa in Miami Beach.”
Sophomore Vic Olsen said she frequently visits the Biltmore Hotel for their Swedish massage.
“Halfway through the semester, I like to get a massage to help me get focused,” said Olsen.” Midterms can be stressful, and my workload can catch up to me mentally. But the serene experience of a massage helps me reset and conquer my classes.”.
Don’t have a car? Not a problem — you can even book a mobile massage and bring the relaxation to the comfort of your apartment or home. Spa Theory is a great resource for students living on or off campus without transportation. The app sends out a specialized in-home massage therapist in Miami right to your doorstep at whatever time and place is convenient for you. Hydrology Wellness also offers a complete mobile spa that travels in range to bring the luxury to you.
Although the effects of massages are undeniably worth it for many, services can be pricey. But don’t fret — there are many ways to still enjoy the benefits. Students can sign up for StudentBeans with their UM student information and view deals like 15% off their purchase or even free sessions at nearby spas like Hand and Stone.
Electric Sun in Red Road Commons also offers infrared light and cryotherapy sessions for very affordable prices. UM students get a 10% discount on all services. Just show your Cane Card at check in.
Students can also use the apps Booksy and Massagebook to book spa appointments. Both sites allow users to browse available appointments and book sessions for local spas, therapists and wellness centers.
UM’s Herbert Wellness Center offers massages for students at a discounted rate. One 25-minute session is just $35 for students. Massage therapy is available on Thursday from 3 p.m. to7 p.m. and Friday 11 a.m. to3 p.m. To schedule an appointment, email [email protected].
Other self-care methods to feel your best can be as simple as pampering yourself with a manicure or lighting a candle and journaling. At home, students can take cold plunges to relax their muscles or take a yoga class to stretch and wind down. Cupping therapy also mimics the benefits of a massage by increasing blood flow and can be done in the comfort of your own home with a kit.
Human touch and relaxation are paramount to a student’s survival. College can be overwhelming, but massages can help alleviate some of that stress.
words_morgan mechler. illustration_sovannreach po. design_charlotte deangelis.
This article was published in Distraction’s Spring 2025 print issue.
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