Needles + Knots: The Ultimate Self-Care Duo

PRESS Modern Massage x Haystack Acupuncture Collaboration

At PRESS Modern Massage, we believe in a wellness approach that meets you where you are — and works with how you live. While massage therapy has long been known for its effectiveness in relieving tension, easing chronic pain, and promoting relaxation, we’re always curious about other holistic practices that complement what we do.

One of our favorite pairings? Massage + Acupuncture. These two powerful modalities not only align beautifully in theory — but also in practice. Whether you’re managing stress, recovering from an injury, or just trying to feel more like yourself again, combining massage therapy with acupuncture can help regulate the nervous system, support circulation, and unlock stuck patterns — physically, mentally, and energetically.

We reached out to our brilliant collaborator, Dr. Nicole Harkness of Haystack Acupuncture, to share her perspective on how acupuncture and massage work hand-in-hand, and what your body might be trying to tell you through subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals. Here’s her take:

“In my private practice, I believe how you approach anything is how you approach everything. The harder you recover, the harder you can go in life. Pairing acupuncture with massage can bring upon enhanced pain relief, mind & body stress reduction and overall improve blood circulation. All of which will help your body perform better physically and mentally. 

In terms of physical, acupuncture points stimulate the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms, while massage therapy releases muscle tension by manipulating the soft tissues, both of which reduce inflammation and improve flexibility. Acupuncture + massage can address various physical conditions and provide comprehensive and effective relief. 

In terms of mental health, both acupuncture and massage stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine. Thus leading to improved mood and reduction in stress, anxiety & depression. 

No matter what you are experiencing – burnout, body pains, emotional strain, or looking for preventative care – acupuncture + massage go “needle-in-hand” for your ultimate recovery.”