With growing evidence to support the use of massage for everything from improving lower-back pain, to reducing anxiety and depression, it stands to reason that you’d want to optimise the effects of your massage treatment, so I’ve put together some advice on what to do after a massage to get the best results:
1. Stay hydrated after a massage
Massage can unlock built-up toxins in your system, so it’s important to keep hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine for at least 12 hours afterwards.
Staying hydrated helps your body to naturally flush the toxins from your system, helping you to feel better.
Water is best for keeping you hydrated but if you fancy switching it up, try sipping on peppermint or ginger tea or add some cucumber or fruit slices to your water.
2. Keep Moving
It’s important to keep the blood flow moving around your newly released muscles.
Gentle movement will get your blood pumping around your body delivering much-needed oxygen to your muscles as well as helping your lymphatic drainage system get rid of any built-up toxins that may have been released during your treatment.
Try some gentle movement and avoid sitting for extended lengths of time for the next few hours.
If you’re heading back to the office after your massage then make sure you take regular breaks from your desk and get up and walk around.
3. Nourish your body
If you’ve had a deep tissue massage nourish your body with a light, protein-rich meal to support your body’s ability to repair and restore itself. Try chicken & vegetable soup or if you’re vegetarian or vegan, try this lentil dhal recipe.
Your massage therapist should tell you what to expect after a message and explain what to do if you feel unwell, but usually, you should feel relaxed and uplifted after a massage.
Want to book a massage?
I offer mobile massage across central London and up to 50 minutes from Wood Green N22. If you’re a new customer please get in touch first, existing clients can book a massage using my online booking system.