After-Care: Tips From A Massage Therapist
by Kristin Bolton, LMT
Whether you just had a light and restorative session, or are recovering from some deep and intense work, here are some ideas for how to best care for yourself after a massage!
MASSAGE THERAPY AFTER-CARE
Hydrate! You’re more likely to feel sore or fatigued from the massage if you don’t drink a good amount of water afterwards.
Nourish yourself with a healthy snack or meal. Fresh juice, fruits, veggies, or soup will make your body feel good after receiving massage.
Avoid alcoholic drinks for at least a few hours. Your body is detoxing from metabolic waste released during the massage, so adding alcohol can easily overwhelm your system.
Have some “me time”. This is a great time for you to leave your phone off and continue to be present with yourself and follow your own natural whims.
Stretching and Yoga. Now that you just had a massage, it’s the ideal time to do some stretching or yoga.
Go for a walk. A leisurely walk helps your body and mind rebalance after a massage.
Get in the water! Whether a nice long bath, a soak in the hot tub, or floating in the pool or ocean, getting in the water is a great way to continue to relax and unwind.
Take a nap if you’re sleepy. If your body is asking for a nap, go ahead and take one! Set a timer if you’re concerned that a nap might interfere with your sleep later that night.
Journaling. It’s the perfect time to write about how your body is feeling and what’s on your mind.
Getting a massage can result in feeling all sorts of ways: relaxed, refreshed, joyful, disoriented, dehydrated, exhausted, energized, rejuvenated, blissful… the list goes on! It’s all part of your body processing and rebalancing itself after receiving work. Make sure to take time to check in with your body, and give yourself the after-care it is asking for. You’ll be glad you did!
