A good massage offers both physical and emotional benefits that freshen up your body and mind. Having a massage for the first time can make you nervous so it is important to talk to your massage therapist about any concerns you may have before getting into the massage room. They ensure you are comfortable throughout the session so that you can have the best possible experience. Having a massage is only the first step but what you do afterward determines how long the feeling will last. This article looks at top seven things you must do after having a massage and why they are important.
- Drink Plenty of Water
It is very important to drink a lot of water after a massage as it helps flush out tissue waste products and any accumulated fluids that were released during your massage. Avoid dehydrating drinks such as alcohol or coffee as it slows down the process of flushing out toxins from your body. Drinking water after a massage can also increase the odds of not feeling sore the next day. It eliminates waste products that were worked out from your muscles into circulation.
- Take a Warm Bath
Taking a warm bath after having a relaxing massage helps clean off the oils used by your massage therapy during the session. You can add some Epsom salts to your bath if you feel a little soreness as it helps soothe your body muscles. People who feel sore in specific areas probably because of muscle strains or pre-existing injuries. Hot water helps relax your muscles by increasing the body temperature, which not only soothes you physically but also mentally.
- Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
Eating a healthy diet after a massage provides your body with essential vitamins and minerals that boost your immune system. Although massage helps to stimulate your nervous system, what you consume afterward is equally important. Eating a healthy diet decreases your chances of getting diseases or health complications. It revitalizes your energy and allows better sleep after a massage. A balanced diet should have a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and starches.
- Stretching Exercises
Regular stretching exercises improve your flexibility and range of motion. The best way to keep your muscles flexible and prevent them from shrinking after having a massage is to exercise regularly. You can always consult your therapist for the right stretching exercises because the intensity may vary depending on your situation. You can do this for about a week or more depending on your schedule before going for a massage. It speeds up the recovery time for sore muscles by improving the flow of blood and nutrients to your entire body.
- Invest in the Habit of Positive Thinking
Stress is one of the major causes of frequent headaches, unhealthy eating habits, and poor lifestyle. A massage works to soothe your muscles and help you relax but it only lasts for a few hours before you resume your normal lifestyle. If you do not invest in the habit of thinking positively about your current life situation, then you will not realize the results of having a massage. It is important to focus on activities that help reduce stress and depression as it has a significant impact on your overall health.
- Improve Your Posture
It is important to maintain your posture after a massage as it is closely related to your health and appearance. Posture is primarily defined by the way your bones and muscles are aligned. Even though massage can help relax tense body muscles, your posture may be affected by several activities such as sleeping, sitting, standing, and lifting. It is important to practice good posture to prevent straining your muscles after a massage.
- Schedule Regular Massages
Occasional massage not only helps to relieve stress but also eases discomfort that cannot be addressed in one session. Scheduling regular massage with your therapist can provide long-term health benefits for people with chronic muscle pains, or those who are proactive about their well-being. A therapist can tailor their massage techniques to suit your needs when you come in regularly.
The feeling you get after a massage will depend on the length of your session, the techniques used, and most importantly, the type of massage. It is common to feel mild soreness especially if you are having a massage for the first time. It is important to practice all the above tips after having a massage to get the most out of your therapy sessions.