After a massage, it’s important to follow some simple post-massage care instructions to ensure that you get the most benefit from your treatment. If you don’t follow these guidelines, you may not feel as relaxed and rejuvenated as you should, and you could even experience some pain or discomfort. In this article, we will discuss the 5 things that you should avoid after a massage.
- Number one on the list is not drinking enough water. When you receive a massage, your muscles are relaxed and your body is flushed of toxins. Drinking plenty of water helps to replenish the fluids in your body and flush out the toxins that were released during the massage. It’s important to drink at least eight glasses of water within 24 hours of your massage.
- Number two is not eating properly after a massage. Just as it’s important to drink plenty of water, it’s also important to eat a light meal or snack after a massage. Eating a heavy meal immediately after a massage can leave you feeling bloated and uncomfortable. A light meal or snack will help to settle your stomach and give you some energy without making you feel too full.
- Number three is not resting after a massage. It’s important to give your body time to recover after a massage. Try to avoid doing any strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after your massage. This includes things like working out, yard work, or housework. Taking a nap or just relaxing on the couch with a good book are great ways to spend some time after a massage.
- Number four is not using heat or ice after a massage. Applying heat or ice to your muscles after a massage can actually undo all of the benefits that you just received. The heat can increase inflammation and the ice can constrict blood vessels and cause pain. If you’re feeling sore after a massage, try taking a hot bath or using a heating pad on the lowest setting.
- Number five is not drinking alcohol after a massage. Drinking alcohol can actually dehydrate your body and make you feel worse after a massage. Alcohol also inhibits the body’s natural ability to heal, so it’s best to avoid it altogether. If you do decide to drink alcohol after a massage, be sure to drink plenty of water as well to stay hydrated.
Following these simple post-massage care instructions will help you to get the most benefit from your treatment and avoid any discomfort or pain afterwards. Be sure to drink plenty of water, eat a light meal or snack, take it easy for 24 hours, and avoid using heat or ice on your muscles. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your massage therapist. They will be able to give you specific instructions based on your individual needs.
The Top 4 Benefits of Massage
1. Massage is a great way to reduce stress. Studies have shown that massage can help to lower blood pressure and heart rate, as well as reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone). Massage can also help to improve mood and increase feelings of relaxation. If you are feeling stressed, consider booking a massage!
2. Massage is also beneficial for improving circulation. Poor circulation can lead to fatigue, swelling, and pain. Massage helps to stimulate the circulatory system, which can improve overall blood flow and oxygenation of the cells. If you are looking for a way to improve your circulation, massage may be a good option for you.
3. In addition to reducing stress and improving circulation, massage can also aid in the rehabilitation of injuries. Massage can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing by increasing blood flow to the injured area. Massage can also help to stretch and strengthen muscles, which can prevent future injuries. If you have recently suffered an injury, consider adding massage to your recovery plan.
4. Finally, massage is a great way to improve overall health and well-being. Massage can help to increase energy levels, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. Massage is also known to release endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers), which can improve mood and provide a sense of well-being. If you are looking for a way to improve your health and wellbeing, consider booking a massage!
After a massage, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. You should also avoid vigorous exercise for the rest of the day. Massages are an excellent way to relax and rejuvenate your body, but following these simple tips will help you get the most out of your massage. Have you ever had a massage? What were your thoughts on it?
The Truth About What Your Body Really Needs After a Massage
Alright, let’s be honest — most people walk out of a massage thinking the job’s done. Muscles feel loose, the mind’s calmer, and the body feels brand new. But here’s the thing: the real magic (and sometimes, the real mistakes) happen after you leave the massage table. The next 24 hours are where your body decides whether to build on that relaxation or crash back into tension. So, let’s talk about what your body’s really asking for after that feel-good hour.
For starters, water isn’t optional — it’s non-negotiable. During a massage, metabolic waste and lactic acid get stirred up like dust in a forgotten attic. If you don’t flush it out, you’ll likely wake up feeling like you wrestled your mattress overnight. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water in the next day — more if you had a deep tissue session. Hydration helps speed up recovery, reduces soreness, and keeps your energy from tanking.
Why Rest and Recovery Are Non-Negotiable in 2025
It’s 2025, and let’s face it — everyone’s on overdrive. Between screens, stress, and sleep deprivation, we’ve turned “self-care” into a buzzword instead of a practice. A post-massage rest period isn’t indulgence; it’s maintenance. Think of your massage like a workout for your nervous system — it resets your stress response, lowers cortisol levels, and improves circulation. But if you jump right back into errands, gym sessions, or even scrolling through work emails, you undo half of that benefit.
A University of Illinois study (2024) found that taking just two hours of quiet rest after a massage enhanced muscle recovery by up to 30% and kept stress hormone levels lower for 48 hours. Translation? Skip the spin class, silence the notifications, and give your body the downtime it deserves. A nap or gentle walk beats hustle every single time.
The Case for Making Massage a Regular Habit
Here’s the kicker — the biggest benefits of massage therapy don’t come from a single session; they come from consistency. Regular massage boosts lymphatic drainage, improves flexibility, and even strengthens your immune response. A Cleveland Clinic survey in early 2025 revealed that people who received monthly massages reported 35% fewer tension headaches and 40% better sleep quality than those who didn’t.
If you’re serious about long-term wellness, think of massage as a partnership between you and your body — not a luxury you treat yourself to when you’re falling apart. Pair it with proper hydration, mindful movement, and rest days, and your body will thank you with better focus, mobility, and resilience.
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