Get A Grasp On Finding A Good Sports Massage Therapist By Reading These Tips
Get A Grasp On Finding A Good Sports Massage Therapist By Reading These Tips
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Hydration Tips For Post-Massage Recovery
Hydration is a great way to support the detoxifying and elimination processes of the body. Drinking water also promotes healthy circulation and can reduce the appearance of cellulite.
The physical manipulation and boosted circulation of massage cause muscles to dehydrate, so it’s important to stay hydrated post-massage to optimize your benefits. Here are some of our favorite hydration tips:
1. Drink Water
Many massage therapists believe1 that toxins are released during the massage session and can be flushed out with drinking water. Although it’s not clear exactly which toxins are released during a massage (aside from the obvious lactic acid), it is a good idea to drink plenty of water after a massage to help reduce soreness, promote recovery, and extend the relaxation effects of a treatment. Everyone’s hydration needs are different, but it is generally recommended to drink water consistently throughout the day and listen to your body’s signals for thirst.
During massage, the muscles are manipulated and toxins are released from the body through the pores and kidneys. This can cause dehydration if proper hydration is not maintained. It’s best to drink a glass of water or two immediately after your massage and to carry a water bottle with you so that you can take sips as needed. Water also helps rehydrate the muscles, which can reduce soreness and speed up the healing process.
2. Eat Something Light
When you’re properly hydrated, it’s easier for your body to process and eliminate the waste material that builds up during massage. It also helps your muscles repair those tiny tears that occur during massage, so you can enjoy the benefits of a good stretch for longer.
It’s important to avoid drinking anything that will dehydrate you, such as alcohol and caffeinated beverages. If you’re going to drink something other than water, make sure it’s an electrolyte-rich choice like fruit juice or coconut water.
Eating a light meal after a massage is helpful, too. Foods that are high in protein, such as Greek yogurt, salmon, garbanzo beans, or chickpeas, can help you recover from your massage and keep your metabolism going strong. They’re also good for your muscles and digestive system. Drinking water throughout the day will further improve your digestion and boost your overall hydration levels. Keep a reusable water bottle massage therapy vs. chiropractic care with you to sip on all day.
3. Take a Bath or Shower
Just like with exercise, the muscles need to recover from the intense kneading that a massage delivers. They need water to flush out the toxins and metabolic waste from the tissues, but they also need the hydration to hydrate the muscle cells.
Eating too much right after a massage can cause your stomach to feel bloated, so it's important to stick with light foods. This will help you maintain the calm feeling that you got from your session without causing any unnecessary discomfort.
The same is true for showers or baths. It's best to wait a little bit before jumping into the tub or shower, about two to three hours after your massage. If you really want to chill out, add some Epsom salt to your bath. It will soothe sore muscles, relieve pain, and improve circulation. Try not to jump into a hot shower because it might make your muscles say "no thanks" with cramps.
4. Exercise
The physical manipulation and boosted circulation of massage cause fluids to move throughout the body, flushing out toxins and aiding muscle recovery. Proper hydration enhances this process, so drink water regularly, particularly after a treatment. While many recommend drinking ice cold water, room temperature or warm is more gentle on the digestive system and just as effective.
Your muscles need 24-48 hours to heal and rebuild themselves after a massage, so it’s best to hold off on intense exercise until then. A strenuous workout can strain the soft, pliable muscles, creating more pain and potentially undoing all of the good work of your massage.
If you must do some exercise, stick to a light stroll or low-impact exercises such as yoga. Stretching can also help maintain the flexibility gained from a massage, especially in the areas targeted during your session.