Anyone who is receiving a massage will naturally be looking for simple ways to maximize the positive effects they receive from this program, and among several factors that may be important here, what you do directly after the massage is definitely one worth considering. There may be a few different actions you can take that will help your body fully optimize the results of any given massage, and most of these are quite simple and straightforward.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're happy to offer a huge range of massage therapy techniques, including everything from sports massage and deep tissue massage to warm bamboo massage and more. In this two-part blog series, we'll look at some possible post-massage actions that might help you receive even greater benefits from this entire process.
*One important note here: The following are just general tips, and may not necessarily be ideal for every massage therapy patient. If you're unsure about any of these for your situation, be sure to speak to your massage therapist first.
Because many forms of massage, such as deep tissue massage, involve your therapist releasing pressure from tight muscles, this often leaves your body temporarily vulnerable. It's quite common for new massage patients to feel like their muscles are sore and tender after a session, and by utilizing an ice pack directly on the targeted area afterward, you'll be able to cut down on some of this discomfort.
Not only this, but ice will also help to constrict blood vessels and reduce any minor swelling that may occur as well. For best results, use the ice pack for 10-15 minutes after your massage session is over.
The importance of good hydration cannot be understated when it comes to health and wellness in general, but after a massage this can be especially crucial. Your massage therapist will likely have included some time during your session to stretch and release tension in a variety of muscles and connective tissue, so by drinking at least 8 ounces of water afterward, you can help flush away any toxins that may have been left behind.
On the flip side here, consuming high amounts of caffeine after a massage can also work to negate some of the benefits you've just received. This is because caffeine has a number of properties that may restrict any release of toxins from your body during and after the session, so if possible, try to limit (or avoid) caffeinated beverages for at least 24 hours afterward.
These are just a few of the many steps you can take after your massage to help further enhance the positive effects that you'll experience. Keep in mind that, as with anything else, each individual body and situation will respond differently. So while these tips may be helpful for some people, they may not necessarily apply to everyone. By speaking with your massage therapist, you can learn more about what you can do to take full advantage of the results that this process has to offer.
If you're looking for a professional massage therapist in your area, contact us here at Body Balance Massage and Float today. Our experienced team members are always available to answer any questions you may have, so don't hesitate to get in touch!