Top benefits of massage for hardworking dads this Father’s Day

Massage is the most booked spa treatment, and for good reason. The Global Wellness Institute's 2025 wellness trends, they reported:

"11.1% of U.S. adults – one in nine adult Americans or nearly 30 million people – visited a massage therapist in 2021 for any reason"

That ranged from those using massage therapy for overall health to those using it to help with pain. While it's certainly not the only treatment you can enjoy on a spa break, it's one of many that can make an inspired gift experience for hardworking, well-deserving dads this Father’s Day. 

Here we look at some of the top benefits of massage, and add a little spa inspiration for relaxing Father's Day gifts.

The benefits of massage

While we are often familiar with some of the physical benefits of massage, such as relieving aches and pains, the upsides seem almost endless, extending beyond soothing muscles and supporting mental wellbeing as well. After all, having a massage is one of the few times when we truly disconnect from the world around us and get back into our own body, creating space for mental and physical recovery.

Every spa will have their own massage treatments which offer different things, which is just as well as every person is unique - sometimes you want a really intense deep tissue massage for example, while other times you might want a deeply relaxing aromatherapy massage. There are plenty of variations that are designed specifically for men as well - they may use products that are more suited to men’s skin. Furthermore, therapists will always talk to you before your spa treatment to better understand what you would like to focus on, so they can tailor the massage accordingly.

On a general basis however, some of the top benefits of massage therapies include:

• Reduced anxiety, depressed mood and anger
• Increased vigour
• Reduced mood disturbances and perceived stress levels
• Improved sleep quality
• Reduced pain and pain perception
• Reduced general fatigue, motivation fatigue, and emotional fatigue
• Ease exercise soreness and help muscle recovery
• Lower blood pressure
• Massage helps to reduce muscle tension
• Improve circulation
• Stimulate the lymphatic system
• Help recover from soft tissue sports injuries
• Nourish and tone the skin
• It can help boost your immune system
• Increase mobility and flexibility

Some of the top spas for Father's day spa experiences

For after-work rest and relaxation at Shangri-La The Shard, London

For city slickers looking for an opportunity to supercharge post-work rest and relaxation, Shangri-La The Shard quite literally takes things to new heights. Located on level 34 of London’s iconic Shard, it soars to 125 metres, and occupying 18 floors of this architectural icon. It has panoramic views overlooking the River Thames and the rooftops of London, and floor-to-ceiling windows let in an abundance of natural light. Seeing London from the sky makes it deliciously romantic, whether it’s over cocktails, dinner or taking a dip in the infinity sky pool - very much the jewel in its wellness crown.

For quality time together for couples at Hoar Cross Hall

Giving parents a little quality time together, Hoar Cross Hall is a dreamy romantic destination in the Staffordshire countryside. Whether you’re there for a spa day or a spa weekend, everyday life will be left behind as you indulge in a tranquil experience that will make you feel wonderful. An award-winning retreat, this is a spa with exceptional facilities and an impressive list of treatments to calm body and mind. Take a soothing swim in the saltwater vitality pool, sit back and relax under the stars in the luxury whirlpools and treat your feet to an Aqua massage before moving on to a decadent massage or facial.

For a golf and spa break at Old Thorns Hotel & Resort

Whether it's a getaway with his best friends or a romantic getaway with a little time to enjoy individual activities, a golf and spa break is always a great gift, and Old Thorns Hotel & Resort is amongst the best. This is a resort destination, where you can find complete leisure and relaxation with loved ones, without having to leave. Aside from indulging in wonderful food and wine, Old Thorns Hotel & Resort has an 18-hole championship golf course, an impressive gym, pool, wellness suite and a spa with 15 treatment rooms and holistic wellbeing experiences including a mindful therapy bed.

For an ultra-relaxing spa day at The Spa at Breedon Priory

A purpose-built spa destination, The Spa at Breedon Priory is a modern retreat in the countryside on the border of South Derbyshire and Leicestershire. Perfect for time to yourself, or quality time with your partner, it's got everything you need to work out and wind down in style, including its own cafe. The barn-style building has enormous windows that let in an abundance of natural light and make the most of the countryside views. The Wellbeing Suite is central to your visit, comprising a range of facilities that flow from the inside out, and if you want to make it truly special The Hideaway is a secluded, private space away from the rest of the spa for you to have all to yourselves.

For total rest and relaxation at Laceby Manor

Set in 150 acres of the Lincolnshire Wolds, Laceby Manor invites you to enjoy laid-back luxury and wellbeing while surrounded by nature. Spa in their eco-conscious retreat enjoying therapies from brands including 111Skin, organic seaweed-based VOYA and natural Tribe517. Enjoy the saunas and steam room before taking a plunge in the natural cold water swimming pond or the indoor/outdoor heated vitality pool. The Oak Room restaurant and pizzeria is the perfect year-round eatery with cosy log burner in the winter and retractable walls in the summer. Undoubtedly a romantic getaway, Laceby Manor is also the perfect luxury getaway for a group of friends looking to spend quality time together.