Top 10 Things to Avoid Doing After a Massage

What Should You Avoid After a Massage?

Everyone knows that feeling after a great massage. You're relaxed, your muscles are soothed and you feel amazing. However, there are some things you should avoid doing after a massage to make sure you don't undo all of the good work the therapist did. 

Here are ten things to avoid after a massage:

1. You're not drinking enough water.

It's essential to drink plenty of water after a massage. This helps flush out toxins that have been released from your muscles. If you don't drink enough water, you may feel sluggish and your muscles will be more likely to feel sore. Drinking water will also help you avoid dehydration, which can lead to headaches and other problems. So make sure to drink up. And if you're looking for a delicious way to get your daily dose of water, try adding some lemon or cucumber slices to your water for a refreshing twist.

2. Loud music should be avoided.

It can be jarring and even painful to the ears. If you must have music, go for something soft and soothing instead. Anything that would be classified as easy listening should do the trick nicely.  You want to avoid anything that will make your body tense up again after it has just been through a relaxing massage. Loud noises are a definite no after your massage.

3. Avoid doing strenuous exercise or activities.

After a massage, your body is in a relaxed state and your muscles are more pliable. It’s best to avoid doing any strenuous exercise or activities that could put undue stress on your body. Instead, take it easy and allow your body to integrate the benefits of the massage.

4. Stressing yourself out isn't helpful.

After a massage, it's important to stay calm and relaxed. Don't do anything that will make you stressed out or anxious. This includes things like working on a project or watching the news. Staying calm and relaxed after a massage is a key to letting the benefits of the massage work. If you find yourself getting tense or anxious, take some deep breaths and try to focus on something calming, like a favorite memory or your happy place. Once you're feeling more relaxed, then you can go about your day.

5. Not stretching after a massage is a bad idea.

Stretching helps to lengthen the muscles that were just shortened during the massage. Doing some light stretching after a massage can help you to avoid feeling stiff and sore later on. Try doing some gentle yoga poses or stretches that target the muscles that were worked on during your massage. If you have any questions about what kind of stretches would be best for you, just ask your massage therapist before you get started. They should be able to give you some guidance about which stretches will work best for your body.

6. A heavy meal after a massage is not ideal.

Avoid eating for at least an hour after your massage. You might be feeling relaxed and hungry after your massage, but a big meal is not the best idea. Eating can make you feel sluggish and full, which goes against the relaxation that you just achieved. Stick to light snacks or wait at least an hour before having a meal.

7. It is not a good idea to have coffee or alcohol.

It is best to avoid having coffee or alcohol after a massage. Coffee and alcohol can both increase the body's sensitivity to touch, which can make the massage less effective. Alcohol can also dehydrate the body, which can lead to feeling sore after the massage. It is best to stay hydrated after a massage by drinking plenty of water.

8. Don't take a shower right away.

It's tempting to want to wash off the oils used during your massage, but it's best to wait a little while. The oils help keep your muscles relaxed, so if you shower right away, you may not get the full benefit of the massage. Give yourself at least 30 minutes to enjoy the feeling of relaxation before hopping in the shower.

9. Avoid using your phone or being on your computer.

After a massage, it's important to take some time for yourself to relax and unplug from the world. Avoid using your phone or being on your computer for at least an hour after your massage. This will help you to stay in the moment and fully enjoy the benefits of the massage.

10. Not doing the homework given by the therapist.

You might think that you know your body better than anyone, but your massage therapist is the expert. They will give you specific instructions on how to take care of yourself post-massage, and it's important to follow their advice. If you don't do the homework, chances are good that you'll undo all the good work that was done during the massage. So make sure to listen to your therapist and do what they say.

You’ve likely just enjoyed some of the many benefits that come with receiving regular massages. However, as nice as it is to relax and bask in the glow of your post-massage bliss, there are a few things you should avoid doing to maximize those benefits and keep yourself healthy. We've provided the top 10 things for what not to do after a massage in this article. Give us a call, we can help you make sure you get the most out of every massage session.