Massage has a whole host of benefits, both physically and mentally but it can be frustrating when the feelings of total relaxation and bliss disappear as soon as you leave the room.
Here are some tips to enhance the benefits of a massage and make that relaxed feeling last as long as possible.
Lying Down With Your Feet on a Chair
Many of us spend a significant portion of our day sitting down, meaning that our muscles can become fixed and tight. Lying down on the floor with your lower legs and feet up on a chair puts your body in a similar position as when you’re sitting down but without the effects of gravity, allowing your muscles to fully relax.
Doing this after a massage can help prolong the beneficial effects for your nervous system and is also a good idea to try at home in-between massages. Aim for between 5 to 8 minutes per day, ideally in the evening to help you unwind and sleep better.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is essential for our bodies to function properly, and generally speaking, we should all be aiming to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water per day. It’s particularly important, however, to stay well hydrated after a massage. During your massage, built-up toxins will have been released and need to be expelled from your body. You can help your kidneys do this by drinking plenty of water or naturally caffeine-free herbal teas such as camomile tea.
Take a Bath
Warm water is soothing so taking a bath after your massage will help to relieve any leftover tension post-massage and prolong the relaxing after-effects. You can also add Epsom Salts to your bath for further health benefits.
Eat Well
A massage can sometimes stimulate muscles that haven’t been used in a while and also helps draw out toxins from the body, and while this is definitely a good thing, it may leave you feeling a little tender afterwards. Try to think of it as your body healing and needing a little extra TLC.
You should try to eat a well-balanced diet after your message, opting for light, nutrient-dense meals rather than indulging in sugary or fatty foods. Lean meat and fish combined with whole grains and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables will provide your body with the essential nutrients it needs for healing and repair, leaving you feeling the benefits long after your massage.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
Alcohol and caffeine are both dehydrating, meaning they cause your body to expel more fluid than they put in. This is the total opposite of what your body needs post-massage when it is trying to flush out expelled toxins. Avoiding both alcoholic drinks and caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and black tea for a good few hours will help you feel the full benefits of your massage.