While massage therapy is a great resource for many people throughout a given year, there are certain seasons or times of the year where it's especially beneficial for some. Winter is a common example here among many people - why might this season bring some even greater benefits alongside massage therapy than you might find during other times of the year?
At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're happy to offer a wide range of the very best massage therapy programs in Lehi and nearby areas, including options like Swedish massage, trigger point therapy and numerous others. What are some of the specific ways massage therapy benefits people during the coldest parts of the Utah calendar? This two-part blog series will go over several.
Improved Circulation
One of the simplest benefits of massage therapy, and which is especially noticeable during winter when it's easy for our hands or feet to get cold due to our body's natural circulation processes, is improved circulation. Massage helps to break up the tension in our muscles and stimulate blood flow throughout the body, allowing us to stay warmer during cold weather and better able to enjoy outdoor activities.
It does this primarily by improving the circulation of both our lymphatic and cardiovascular systems. The lymphatic system helps to remove toxins from our body, while the cardiovascular system delivers oxygenated blood throughout our tissues. Improved circulation in winter months not only helps to keep us warmer, but also can alleviate some of the discomfort associated with cold-weather conditions like arthritis or joint pain.
Immune System Boost
Down related lines, massage therapy can also do wonders for the body's immune system in winter months. While it’s always important to take proper care of our health year-round, massage can help jumpstart that process during colder months when we're more likely to be affected by viruses.
Massage helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for introducing antibodies and other cells that fight off infection. It does this by targeting the lymphatic system, promoting healthy circulation of fluids, which helps reduce inflammation in our bodies as well.
Joint Stiffness Issues
Some people typically experience more joint stiffness in winter months than during other seasons. Though this can be due to a variety of factors, massage therapy helps address some of those issues by increasing flexibility, mobility and range of motion.
The heat provided by massage, along with the specific techniques used in many programs, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Massage also helps to loosen the muscles around our joints, lessening the feeling of tightness or stiffness that can come with cold weather.
Overall, massage therapy can be especially beneficial during winter months in Lehi and nearby areas. To learn more about the options available here at Body Balance Massage and Float, we welcome you to reach out to us today!
In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some initial tips to help maximize the massage experience once the session is over. There are several post-massage actions or concepts that many people find beneficial, whether to reduce pain, increase recovery or some other related need.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, our wide variety of massage therapy techniques includes several extremely helpful options, from deep tissue massage and Swedish massage to sports massage, warm bamboo massage and more. Here are some additional areas to consider following your massage that may help optimize your results and make you feel even better than you would already.
Snack or Other Bodily Fueling
In many cases, massage therapy will cause the body to work hard. It requires energy to repair and heal the muscles, which can tax the body. You may want to consider having a small snack before or after your massage to help replenish any lost energy.
For instance, a banana or some other form of potassium can help with cramping that may be caused by the massage. Eating a small amount of protein can also give your body the tools it needs to repair any damaged tissue.
Epsom Salt
Another great post-massage tip is to soak in an Epsom salt bath. This will help your muscles relax even more, and it can also relieve any pain or discomfort you may be feeling. This is because Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, which is known for its ability to reduce pain and inflammation. To further increase the benefits of your Epsom salt bath, consider adding a few drops of lavender essential oil. This will help you relax even more and can also promote better sleep.
If you don't have a bathtub, don't worry – there are other options. You can make a compress using Epsom salt and warm water, and then apply it to the area that is giving you the most trouble.
Avoid Major Workouts
While you might feel energetic and invigorated after your massage, it's important to avoid any major physical activity. This is because your muscles are already in a weakened state, and they need time to recover. Going for a light walk is fine, but anything more strenuous could do more harm than good.
In addition, it's important to stay hydrated following your massage - and working out will only increase your need for water. So make sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially if you're going to be active.
Overall, there are many things you can do to make the most of your massage and help your body recover more quickly. For more on this, or to learn about any of our massage or float therapy programs, speak to our staff at Body Balance Massage and Float today.
What you do after a massage session is one of the most important factors in how long the benefits last. The right post-massage care routine can boost muscle recovery, reduce soreness, and help your body fully absorb the work your therapist just performed. These care tips apply whether you had a deep tissue massage, a sports treatment, or a gentle relaxation session.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, we offer a wide range of massage therapy techniques, including deep tissue massage, sports treatments, warm bamboo sessions, and more. Whether you came in for pain relief, muscle relaxation, or general well-being, the post-massage recovery steps below will help you get the most from every visit.
*One important note: The following are general self-care tips and may not be ideal for every massage therapy patient. If you are unsure about any of these for your situation, speak to your therapist first for personalized aftercare advice.
Why Post-Massage Care Matters
Your body goes through real physical changes during a session. Deep tissue massage and other hands-on techniques work to release muscle tension, break up adhesions in muscle fibers, and increase blood flow to targeted areas. After your massage session ends, your body continues the recovery process on its own. Drinking water, resting, and following consistent post-massage routines all give your body time to fully benefit from the treatment.
Skipping these self-care steps can lead to unnecessary muscle soreness, slower healing, or a post-massage feeling that fades too quickly. Taking care of yourself afterward is one of the simplest ways to protect your investment in your long-term health and overall well-being.
Use Cold Therapy for Post-Massage Soreness
Because techniques like deep tissue massage involve your therapist releasing pressure from tight muscles, your body can be temporarily vulnerable afterward. It is common for patients to feel sore and tender after a deep tissue massage or a targeted treatment for chronic pain. Using an ice pack or cold compress directly on the affected area can provide effective relief from this post-massage soreness.
Cold therapy helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, making it one of the easiest self-care steps you can take afterward. For best results, apply the ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes after your massage session. If you experience muscle soreness that lasts more than 48 hours, try alternating cold therapy with warm compresses to reduce inflammation and support the healing process.
Drink Plenty of Water to Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is one of the most important parts of post-massage recovery. Your therapist likely spent time releasing tension in muscles and connective tissue, so drinking water afterward helps your body flush out toxins and clear metabolic waste that builds up during treatment. Aim to drink plenty of water in the hours following your visit. A useful guideline is to drink at least half your body weight in ounces over the next 24 hours.
>Staying hydrated also supports your lymphatic system, which plays a key role in moving metabolic waste out of your tissues and maintaining healthy blood flow throughout the body. If plain water feels boring, herbal teas are a great alternative that supports hydration without the downsides of caffeine. Proper hydration is the single most important self-care step you can take post-massage, so keep a water bottle close and sip consistently throughout the day.
Skip Caffeine and Alcohol After Massage Therapy>
Consuming caffeine or alcohol afterward can work against your recovery. Caffeine may raise blood pressure and counteract the calming effects your nervous system just experienced. Alcohol is dehydrating and can interfere with the ability to flush out toxins naturally. Most massage therapists recommend that you avoid alcohol and limit caffeine for at least four to six hours post-massage to get the full benefit from your session.
If you typically reach for coffee after a good workout or stressful day, try replacing it with water or herb tea during the post-massage window. This small change can help the benefits last longer and keep the post-massage feeling of relaxation going well into your evening.
Try a Warm Bath or Heat Therapy
Two to three hours after your session, a warm bath can be an excellent way to extend the muscle relaxation and comfort you are feeling. Adding Epsom salts to a warm bath creates a bath that helps reduce inflammation and ease remaining muscle tension. The magnesium in those salts absorbs through the skin, which can promote healing and support muscle repair after a deep tissue massage or other intensive bodywork.
If a bath is not available, applying heat through warm compresses or a heating pad works well, too. Heat therapy increases circulation to sore areas, which speeds up the healing process and provides effective relief from stiffness. Keep heat therapy sessions to 15 to 20 minutes at a time. You can also add a few drops of lavender essential oil to a warm bath for a calming effect that supports relaxation and overall well-being.
Practice Gentle Movement and Stretching
While you should avoid strenuous activity right after your appointment, gentle movement is one of the best self-care practices for the hours that follow. Light activities like walking, easy yoga, or a few stretches help keep your blood circulating and prevent your muscles from tightening back up. Try some simple stretches or gentle stretching that targets the areas your therapist worked on.
Walking for 10 to 20 minutes later in the day is another easy way to maintain the increased blood flow and range of motion from your session. Avoid heading to the gym for strenuous activity or a heavy workout for at least 12 to 24 hours. Pushing too hard too soon can revert muscles to a tense state and reduce the pain relief you gained. Light movement also helps correct muscle imbalances over time, especially when combined with regular massages and a consistent self-care routine.
Get Quality Sleep
One of the most underrated post-massage tips is to prioritize sleep quality on the night of your appointment. It is completely normal to feel tired after a deep tissue session or any intensive bodywork. This happens because your nervous system has shifted into a deeply relaxed state, and your body is actively working on muscle recovery at the cellular level.
Plan to go to bed a little earlier than usual. A dark, cool, quiet room will help you take full advantage of the restorative rest that follows. Many clients report the best sleep they have had in weeks after a session. This rest period is when your body does its most important repair work, so give yourself the time and do not cut it short.
Eat to Support Recovery
What you eat afterward matters more than most people realize. Choose light, nutrient-dense foods that support your body’s repair work. Lean proteins like chicken, fish, or eggs help rebuild tissue, while healthy fats from avocado or nuts help reduce inflammation. A balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables gives your body the fuel it needs to continue repairing after your deep tissue massage or other treatment.
Avoid heavy, processed, or greasy meals for the rest of the day. Difficult-to-digest foods pull energy away from restoration. Keeping your meals light is a simple but powerful part of proper care. A balanced diet also supports your overall well-being between appointments and helps reduce persistent pain symptoms over time.
Build a Self-Care Routine with Regular Sessions
The benefits of a single massage session can be significant, but consistent self-care and regular massages deliver the most dramatic improvements. If you deal with chronic pain, muscle imbalances, or ongoing muscle tension in your daily life, scheduling regular appointments helps your body maintain progress from each visit. Deep tissue massage in particular produces compounding results when received on a consistent schedule.
Many clients at Body Balance Massage and Float find that their muscle pain decreases and their daily life improves after committing to a routine. Talk to your therapist about how often you should book based on your goals, whether that is chronic pain management, muscle recovery after athletic training, or general stress relief. Investing in regular sessions is one of the best things you can do for your health.
Muscle Pain and When to Seek Professional Advice
While some soreness after a session is normal and usually resolves within one to three days, there are situations where you should seek guidance or medical attention. If you experience sharp or persistent muscle pain, unusual swelling, numbness, or dizziness that does not improve with rest and hydration, contact your healthcare provider.
Most massage therapists, including our experienced massage therapists at Body Balance Massage and Float, are happy to provide aftercare advice tailored to your needs. Do not hesitate to ask about the best post-massage care steps for your body, especially if you are managing a chronic pain condition or recovering from an injury.
Looking after your body afterward is just as important as the session itself. By following these self-care tips, you give your body the support it needs for muscle recovery, reduced muscle soreness, and lasting pain relief in your daily life. The right care keeps the benefits long after the appointment ends and sets you up for even better results next time. Every body responds differently, so speak with your therapist to find the approach that works best for you.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, our team is here to help you get the most from every visit. Whether you need deep tissue massage for chronic pain, a relaxation-focused session, or personalized care tips, we have you covered. Contact us today to book your next appointment and start building a self-care routine that supports your well-being for the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to feel tired after a session?
Yes, many people feel tired after their appointment, especially following a deep tissue massage or a longer session. Your nervous system shifts into a relaxed state as your body works to heal and restore itself. This is a sign that the treatment is doing its job. Rest, stay hydrated, and allow yourself to ease back into the day. The post-massage feeling of tiredness typically passes within a few hours.
How long does soreness after a massage last?
Soreness after a session typically resolves within one to three days. Drinking water, using cold therapy or a cold compress, and getting quality sleep can all speed up the process. If discomfort persists beyond 72 hours or gets worse, reach out to your therapist or healthcare provider.
What should I avoid afterward?
You should skip intense exercise, avoid alcohol, and limit caffeine for at least several hours. These can interfere with your body’s natural healing and reduce the post-massage feeling of relaxation. Stick to light activities like walking, drinking water, and easy stretching for the rest of the day.
Can a bath help after a session?
Yes, a warm bath is one of the most popular self-care steps after a session. An Epsom salt bath, in particular, can support relaxation, better circulation, and help reduce inflammation. Wait two to three hours after your appointment before soaking, and keep the water warm rather than hot. Many clients find that a soak in the tub extends the post-massage feeling of calm and helps them sleep better that night.
In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some important information on the possibility of changing your preferred massage therapy technique as you get older. This is a beneficial approach for some people for a few different reasons, including changing bodily needs with age, and knowing your options plays a big role here.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're happy to offer deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, trigger point therapy and numerous other massage techniques to a variety of Orem clients, including those who are getting older and are considering making changes to their normal massage routine. What are some of the other key factors that play a role in this decision? Here are several.
Medications Being Used
In some cases, those of us who are getting up there in years may have to take on new medications that can affect how our body reacts to massage. For example, if you've recently been prescribed blood thinners, you'll want to avoid deep tissue massage as it could cause bruising. The same goes for those who are on cancer treatments or have had recent surgeries.
This is one area that perfectly highlights the importance of communicating with your massage therapist for assistance. It would be impossible for us to list every conceivable medication interaction within this blog; your massage therapist, however, has years of experience and will be able to give you an expert opinion on what will work best given your current situation.
Changes in Pain Tolerance
As we age, it's not uncommon for our pain tolerance to change. This can be due to a number of factors, and it doesn't necessarily mean that we're growing more sensitive - sometimes, it can be the opposite. It's important to communicate any changes in your pain tolerance to your massage therapist so that they can adjust their approach accordingly.
In some cases, this may lead to your choosing a different massage technique altogether. For example, if you've always enjoyed deep tissue massages but are now finding them too painful, Swedish massage may be a better option.
Possible Changes
Based on the information above, it's clear that there are a number of factors to consider when deciding whether or not to change your massage therapy approach as you age. And while it's impossible to predict the future, being aware of potential changes can help you be better prepared for whatever may come.
If you have any questions about how aging may affect your massage therapy, or if you'd like to schedule an appointment in or around Orem, please contact our caring staff at Body Balance Massage and Float today. We'll be happy to help you find the perfect massage therapy approach for your needs.
If you're someone who regularly utilizes massage therapy and its numerous benefits, whether for pain relief, help with a specific condition or just overall wellness, the technique(s) used are one important subject you'll be regularly considering. One question we regularly get in this area: Should massage techniques be changed as a given person ages?
At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're happy to offer a huge range of massage therapy techniques, including everything from deep tissue massage to trigger point therapy, Swedish massage and numerous others. We're also happy to assist patients with questions like these -- should massage technique considerations change as you get older? This is a highly personalized question, with answers that may vary from patient to patient; in this two-part blog series, we'll look into a number of elements to consider if you're in this position.
Health Conditions
Naturally, one of the most important factors that may dictate whether or not you should change your massage therapy approach as you age is any health conditions you may have developed. These could be new conditions, or ones that have been present for some time.
For example, if you're getting older and beginning to develop significant arthritis pain, a deep tissue massage that was once comfortable may now cause you more pain and discomfort. In this case, you'll want to look into other options that may better suit your needs, such as Swedish massage or another gentler approach.
On the other hand, if you're dealing with long-term health conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic pain, you may find that massage provides more relief than ever before. In this case, you may want to look into more frequent sessions or longer sessions than you've had in the past.
Injury Concerns
In other cases, specific injuries may come into play when deciding whether or not to change your massage therapy approach.
For example, if you've recently suffered a back injury, you'll want to be very careful about the techniques used during your massage. In some cases, a deep tissue massage may be too much for an injured back and could actually make things worse; in this case, a gentler approach like Swedish massage may be a better option.
On the other hand, if you're dealing with an old injury that's never quite healed properly, targeted deep tissue work may finally help to get things moving in the right direction.
Skin Quality or Conditions
Another key element to consider is the quality and condition of your skin. As you age, your skin becomes thinner and less elastic. This can make certain types of massage, like deep tissue work, more painful than they would be on younger skin. In this case, it may be best to stick with gentler techniques or shorter sessions.
In addition, if you have any skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, it's important to take these into account when choosing a massage technique. In some cases, certain approaches may aggravate existing skin conditions; in others, massage may actually help to improve them.
In part two of our series, we'll go over some further themes here. For more on this, or to learn about any of our massage therapy or float therapy programs, speak to the team at Body Balance Massage and Float today.
In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked into some of the major benefits of massage therapy for those who suffer from arthritis. This is a very common condition, but also one that often responds to certain forms of treatment -- and massage therapy is one particular type that's had immense success for a number of patients.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're happy to offer a wide range of massage therapy, including options like Swedish massage and others that are often ideal for those dealing with arthritis or similar issues. While part one of our series went over why this form of treatment is often so beneficial to arthritis patients, today's part two will look at some of the specific massage techniques that tend to show the most success here.
Swedish Massage
As we just alluded to above, Swedish massage is one of the most popular forms of massage therapy in general, but it's also very effective for those with arthritis. This type of massage uses long strokes and circular motions to work the muscles, and it can be very helpful in reducing pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.
Through various similar motions, such as kneading, tapping and even vibrations, Swedish massage can also help to increase blood flow and reduce stress. While this latter benefit might not sound like it would be all that helpful for arthritis specifically, reducing stress has been shown to do wonders for pain management in general -- and that's certainly something worth taking advantage of!
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is another very popular form of massage, but it's not quite as common as Swedish massage. This is because deep tissue massage is a bit more intense, and it's often not recommended for those who are new to massage in general.
That being said, deep tissue massage can be extremely beneficial for those who suffer from arthritis, as it can help to break up any knots or blockages that might be causing pain. This type of massage is also very effective in reducing inflammation, which is often a major problem for arthritis sufferers.
Shiatsu Massage
Known for its ability to target specific pain spots, Shiatsu massage is a Japanese form of massage that uses pressure and finger strokes on the body. This type of massage is often used to treat arthritis, as it can be very helpful in reducing pain and stiffness in the joints.
One of the best things about Shiatsu massage is that it can be done without any massage oil, which makes it a great option for those who are sensitive to touch or have allergies.
For more on the quality massage programs that may benefit those with arthritis, or to learn about any of our massage or float therapy services, speak to the team at Body Balance Massage and Float today.