May-August 2026 - The Pride Issue: To Your Health - Lance McDaniel of Transcending Massage

For Lance McDaniel, owner of Transcending Massage, healing is not just physical—it’s deeply personal, intentional, and rooted in trust. His approach to massage therapy goes beyond relaxation, offering clients a space to reconnect with their bodies on their own terms.

“For those experiencing gender dysphoria and body-related stresses, massage offers you the opportunity to be in complete control of how you are touched,” McDaniel explains. “Many folks have trauma around their body… massage empowers you to take control.”

That sense of autonomy is central to his practice, especially for LGBTQ clients who may have experienced discomfort in traditional healthcare settings. McDaniel prioritizes communication from the very beginning. “I ask about your pronouns and what name you want me to call you,” he says. “To me, it’s pretty basic stuff, but I know many healthcare providers are still a ways away from doing that.”

By creating a space rooted in respect and consent, McDaniel helps clients feel safe enough to fully relax—something that can be difficult when past experiences have created tension or distrust around physical care.

Beyond creating an affirming environment, massage therapy also offers measurable physical benefits. Regular sessions can support cardiovascular health by activating the body’s parasympathetic nervous system. “This reduces stress hormones like cortisol,” McDaniel notes, helping lower blood pressure and promote overall wellness. Over time, this consistent reduction in stress can contribute to improved heart health and overall resilience.

His approach is intentionally flexible. “I don’t believe in one size fits all massage—I believe in massage fitting all,” he says. By adapting techniques to each client, often using slow, deep pressure, he ensures that care is both effective and personalized.

Massage also works well alongside other forms of care. “Seeing a chiropractor? Think about a massage before… or after seeing your mental health provider,” McDaniel suggests. “It helps elongate the effects of any of these modalities.” This integrative approach allows clients to get more out of the care they are already receiving.

For many clients, improved sleep is one of the most noticeable benefits. “Reducing stress hormones helps folks get to sleep faster and stay asleep longer,” he explains, noting that better sleep often leads to improved mood, focus, and overall quality of life.

When it comes to frequency, McDaniel emphasizes accessibility. “Come as frequently as you can afford to,” he says. “If you’re worried about money, ask… lots of therapists are willing to have a sliding scale.”

At its core, Transcending Massage is about more than wellness—it’s about creating a space where every client feels seen, respected, and empowered to heal.

​Transcending Massage is located at 1202 Central Ave SW. Ste 14. Call (505) 306-5319 to schedule an appointment or email Lance at [email protected].