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Massage has many therapeutic benefits, and many of our clients want to know how they can get the most out of their massage, even after it. We get it, and we want to help make sure the benefits you receive last a while! That’s why we’ve created this list of our top three things to do – or not do – to help you get the most out of your massage. Let’s go ahead and dive into some of the best ways to enhance your massage experience for long after your massage.
Avoid Alcohol
Many people know that they’re supposed to drink water after a massage, but most people still like to indulge in a drink either before or after their massage. Although we won’t tell you to abstain from alcohol for life, what we will tell you is that alcohol is a toxin. One of the many wonderful benefits of massage is that it helps facilitate healing, and detoxifying is one of those many healing benefits.
However, when you drink alcohol before your massage, you’re putting toxins into your body that are then going to have to be immediately flushed out. This can be very hard on the body and lymphatic system, and may even make you sick during the session. When you consume alcohol after a massage, you’re essentially un-doing all of the detoxifying effects the massage had on your system. You are supposed to drink water to help your liver and kidneys flush out toxins. In fact, after a massage you are supposed to drink at least one liter of water within two hours of the massage. When you consume alcohol after a massage, you’re pumping toxins back in to an already overworked process. For every alcoholic or caffeinated beverage you have, you need to drink one glass of water to remain neutral.
Take an Epsom Salt Bath
Another must-do if possible is to take an Epsom salt bath after your massage. Epsom salts contain magnesium, which many people are deplete in because our soil is lacking in this key mineral. Soaking in a warm Epsom salt bath relaxes your muscles and mind. The magnesium is absorbed through the skin and helps with everything from cellular regeneration to sleeping and gastrointestinal health. It aids in the detoxification process, too, so make sure you bring in some chilled water during your soak. You can add a twist of lemon to your water for extra detoxing benefits, and some essential oils to your bath.
Stretch
Last but not least, we advise for you indulge in a good stretch session. Stretching provides added relief to tight muscles. Stretching them after a massage will help remind them to stay at this longer, less inhibited length. It helps your body to stay in proper alignment. You may also find that you’re able to stretch deeper or perform stretches or poses that you’re normally not able to do because of the added flexibility from your massage.
Our favorite ritual after a massage is to take a thirty-minute Epsom salt soak followed by a thirty-to-sixty-minute stretch session. We also love to hop into a Yin yoga class at one of the nearby yoga studios, or do a virtual yoga class following a massage. Yin yoga is a very gentle and relaxing form of yoga that allows your body to stretch deeply into the connective tissues, increasing flexibility and feelings of relaxation.
Now you know how the professionals extend the lifespan of their massage sessions. We’d love to hear about your experiences! Do you have any secrets that you swear by? Leave a comment below! We’re always here to help! If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call our office.