Massage therapy alleviates tension in your body and helps you physically and mentally relax. Enjoy the benefits a bit longer by following these four tips for self-care after a massage session.
1. Hydrate
A table massage typically lasts between 30 and 90 minutes. During this time, the therapist applies gentle or strong pressure to your muscles and joints to reduce strain and work on knots. While the massage should relax your body, you can experience unpleasant muscle soreness instead if you’re dehydrated.
Electrolyte-replenishing drinks, such as fresh juice, are one of the best ways spas can pamper clients. Drink plenty of water or an electrolyte drink, and avoid caffeinated beverages for a few hours after your massage to make the most of it.
2. Listen to Soothing Sounds
Another tip for self-care after a massage session is to listen to soothing sounds, such as your favorite relaxing music or ambient background noise. Whether you’re listening to pop music or the sound of rainfall, play your selection at a gentle volume.
Avoid listening to the news and content created to anger or frustrate you. Massage can lower your blood pressure, and you can enjoy this benefit longer by avoiding angering reports or discussions.
3. Wait To Exercise
Many massage therapists recommend that clients wait at least 24 hours after a massage to resume exercising. After an hour or so of pressure applied to your muscles, they need a break. Following an intense deep-tissue massage, you might need to wait 48 hours before exercising.
If you want to exercise, talk to your massage therapist about it first. Low-impact, light exercises like moderate walking, stretching, or gentle swimming can be fine within 24 hours of your session.
4. Take a Warm Shower
Your therapist will probably apply oil and lotion to your skin to reduce friction. Some of the products also use aromatherapy to deepen your relaxation.
Ask your therapist how long they recommend you leave the products on your skin after the session. Some will say it’s fine to take a shower as soon as you want. Others might advise you to wait to shower for at least 2 hours if you want the products to condition your skin. Opt for a warm shower rather than a hot one to avoid becoming light-headed.
