So You Got a Massage…Now What?
How to Maximize Massage Benefits and What to Expect After A Treatment
Benefits of a Massage
Physical Benefits
Improved Circulation: Helps increase blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues.
Reduced Muscle Tension: Relieves stiffness and pain in tight muscles.
Pain Relief: Alleviates chronic pain, soreness, or discomfort from injuries.
Increased Flexibility: Enhances range of motion by relaxing muscles and connective tissues.
Improved Posture: Addresses muscular imbalances and alignment issues.
Boosted Immune System: Stimulates lymphatic flow to remove toxins and strengthen immunity.
Faster Recovery: Speeds up recovery from exercise or injury by reducing inflammation.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
Stress Reduction: Lowers cortisol levels, inducing relaxation and calmness.
Better Sleep: Promotes deeper, more restful sleep.
Enhanced Mood: Increases serotonin and dopamine, improving mental well-being.
Reduced Anxiety and Depression: Provides a grounding and calming effect.
Mind-Body Connection: Encourages awareness of physical and emotional states.
Common Things to Expect After a Massage
Positive Effects
Relaxation: A sense of calm and tranquility.
Improved Mobility: Eased stiffness and better joint movement.
Reduced Pain: Relief from sore or tight muscles.
Increased Energy: Feeling more rejuvenated and balanced.
Temporary Reactions
Soreness or Tenderness: Especially if deep tissue massage was performed.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Due to relaxation or changes in blood pressure.
Thirst: Massage can dehydrate muscles slightly, so hydration is key.
Sleepiness or Fatigue: The release of tension may make you feel tired.
Heightened Emotional State: Emotional release due to the relaxation of stored tension.
Self-Care Tips
Drink plenty of water to continue flushing out toxins.
Avoid heavy physical activity immediately afterward (can resume 2-4 hours after massage as long as your body isn’t too sore)
Rest and allow your body to integrate the benefits.
Stretch gently to maintain loosened muscles.
These effects are normal and typically subside within 24–48 hours as your body adjusts.
IF your symptoms last longer than 48 hours- try drinking more water, gentle stretching, and alternating ice and heat on the sore areas.
IF it has been over a week and your symptoms persist- know this is not entirely uncommon but isn’t ideal. It is likely you received too much pressure, you are not taking adequate care of your body post-massage or there is an underlying issue. Contact a physician if you are concerned about the symptoms.
What to Do After a Massage
Hydrate
Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins released during the massage. This also helps reduce soreness.
Rest and Relax
Allow your body time to integrate the benefits of the massage. Avoid overexerting yourself for the rest of the day.
Eat Lightly
Opt for light, healthy meals to avoid overloading your digestive system, as your body may still be in a relaxed state.
Take a Warm Bath or Shower
A warm bath with Epsom salts or magnesium flakes can help enhance relaxation and relieve any residual muscle soreness.
Stretch Gently
Light stretching can help maintain muscle flexibility and prevent stiffness after a massage.
Apply Heat or Ice if Needed
Use a heating pad for persistent tension or an ice pack for inflammation if any area feels unusually sore.
Pay Attention to Your Body
Note how you feel and communicate with your therapist for future sessions to tailor the massage to your needs.
What Not to Do After a Massage
Avoid Intense Physical Activity
Strenuous exercise can counteract the relaxation and muscle recovery benefits of the massage.
Don’t Skip Hydration
Dehydration can worsen soreness and fatigue.
Avoid Heavy or Greasy Foods
These can make you feel sluggish and counteract the detoxifying effects of the massage.
Don’t Consume Alcohol
Alcohol dehydrates the body and can hinder toxin removal, negating the massage’s benefits.
Avoid Overexposure to Cold
Stay warm, as your muscles may be more sensitive to cold after relaxation.
Don’t Skip Rest
Pushing yourself too hard can undo the positive effects of the massage.
Don’t Schedule Stressful Activities
Avoid situations that might cause stress or tension, allowing the benefits to last longer.
By following these do's and don’ts, you can maximize the therapeutic effects and enjoy prolonged relaxation and recovery!
