There’s nothing quite like the feeling after a great massage – whether you land on the table looking to ease some tension, recover from training or just take a moment for yourself away from the real world. But what you do after you hop off the table matters just as much as the hands-on-work. Want to really make the most of it? Here are a few simple things to keep in mind after your massage session.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
First things first – drink water! Massage boosts circulation and helps release metabolic waste from your muscles. Keeping hydrated helps your body flush all of that out and gives your system a little refresh. If you feel a bit sleepy or foggy post-treatment, water can also help perk you back up gently.
Take your time
That spaced out, floaty feeling post massage? Totally normal. Give yourself a moment. To ease back into the day. Sit up slowly, take a few deep breaths and let your body recalibrate before rushing off. A couple of quiet minutes can go a long way.
Stick with your plan
If your therapist gave you any exercises or stretches to try after your massage – there’s a reason! They’re there to support your recovery and extend the benefits of your session. And don’t worry, they’re usually short, simple and super easy to slot into your daily routine. A few minutes a day can mean fewer aches, better mobility and longer lasting results.
Ease back in
We know, life is BUSY! But jumping straight back into stress mode right after a massage undoes all that good stuff you felt on the table. Try not to schedule back-to-back meetings, errands or intense workouts after your session (easier said than done when time is tight: we get it). But giving your body a bit of a buffer will really extend the benefits of that massage well into the real world. Even a short rest, a warm shower or half an hour to just chill will make a huge difference.
Let it sink in
The effects of massage keep working even after you’ve left the treatment room but only if you let them! Rest helps your body soak up all the benefits so try not to tense up too quickly. Whether it’s part of your recovery plan or regular self-care, how you treat your body after your session plays a big role in how to feel the next day (and the next)!
Make it part of your lifestyle
To get the most from your massage, timing really is everything. Try to book your appointments when you know you’ll have a bit of space to breathe afterwards. Fitting one in between meetings or before a big event might leave you feeling more stressed than relaxed as you hop up and rush back into life. Even the smallest bit of post-massage downtime can help lock in the benefits. See if you can schedule an extra half an hour to take it easy when you’re done.
A final word
Another one that’s easier said than done – massage isn’t just a one-off treat; it’s part of a much bigger picture. Supporting your body after each session with good habits like staying hydrated, doing your therapist prescribed exercises and giving yourself a bit of a rest means you’ll get more out of every treatment. So next time you book in, plan for the recovery too – future you will be so glad you did!
Would you like to help others through the power of massage? Then take a look at our range of Sports Massage Courses and Introduction to Massage days!
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