Do and don'ts after massage?

Author: Miss Marcella Hickle DVM  |  Last update: Thursday, April 10, 2025

After a massage, it is important to drink plenty of water, eat healthy foods, and get plenty of rest. You should also avoid smoking, drinking caffeine, working out, and taking hot baths or showers. If you have any questions about what to do or not do after a massage, please ask your massage therapist.

What shouldn't you do after a massage?

We have listed ten (10) things that you should not do after a massage.
  1. Not Drinking Enough Water. ...
  2. Take A Shower Immediately. ...
  3. Taking Hot Shower. ...
  4. Eating A Large Meal. ...
  5. Drinking Coffee. ...
  6. Drinking Alcohol. ...
  7. Doing Strenuous Exercise or Activities. ...
  8. Stressing Yourself Out.

How long do I wait to shower after a massage?

It's generally recommended to wait at least 1 to 2 hours after a massage before showering. This allows your body to continue to relax and absorb the benefits of the massage. Showering too soon can wash away the oils used during the massage and might disrupt the relaxation process.

What are red flags in massage therapy?

  • 1. Excessive Pain: While some discomfort can be normal, especially in deep tissue massages, excessive pain is a red flag.
  • 2. Bruising: Minor bruising can occur, but significant or frequent bruising indicates that the therapist is using too much pressure or improper techniques.
  • 3. Nerve Pain:

How long should you rest after a massage?

After a massage, it's generally recommended to rest for about 15 to 30 minutes. This allows your body to continue the relaxation process and helps to enhance the benefits of the massage. Staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activities for the rest of the day can also be beneficial.

Massage Therapy Dos and Don'ts

What happens to your body after a deep tissue massage?

So, what happens to the body after deep tissue massage? Most clients report feeling mild soreness akin to DOMS after deep tissue massage. This usually lasts a few days after which time clients report benefits such as pain relief, improved range of motion, better sleep, and lower blood pressure.

How often should you get a massage?

1. What are the general massage frequency guidelines? It is generally recommended to get a massage once a month to maintain the benefits of relaxation and stress relief. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific health concerns or physical discomfort.

What not to do during a massage?

Here are some examples of what you, as the client, should never do! :
  • Don't joke if this is a “happy ending" massage or make any sexual comments. ...
  • Don't get sexually excited, it's inappropriate. ...
  • Don't break wind. ...
  • Avoid talking too much. ...
  • Don't use your phone. ...
  • Don't be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

What are the 4 stages of massage?

Here we will summarise the four most commonly recognised categories of technique that form sports and many other forms of massage. They include effleurage, petrissage, frictions and tapotement.

How do you know if you had a good massage?

A good massage should leave you feeling better than before. If there's no relief in the areas you sought help for, or if you feel the same or worse, it's a sign that the massage didn't meet the standard of what makes a good massage.

What to drink after a massage?

Drink water and avoid caffeine, alcohol

It can also help wake you up if you find yourself feeling drowsy afterward. Additionally, try to avoid caffeine or alcohol for several hours after your massage as they can contribute to dehydration, impact circulation, and may affect you differently than they normally do.

What to wear to a massage?

Leave the leather pants and pencil skirts at home! I generally remind you of this before your session, and it's quite common for people to come straight from work, but with a bag of clothes to change into. I usually recommend wearing a t-shirt and yoga pants/sweatpants/shorts.

Should I wash my hair before a massage?

Clean hair can enhance the overall experience, making it more pleasant for both you and the therapist. Additionally, if oils are used during the massage, starting with clean hair ensures that the oils can be fully absorbed without the interference of dirt or product buildup.

Can massage therapists feel knots?

In conclusion, yes, massage therapists can indeed feel knots in your muscles. Through their extensive training and experience, they have honed their ability to detect areas of tension and release them effectively.

What to do at the end of a massage?

Take It Easy

Avoid any strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or intense workouts for at least 24 hours. Give your muscles time to adapt and benefit from the work they've just received. Instead, opt for gentle movements like stretching or leisurely walks to help maintain flexibility.

Why am I so tired after a deep tissue massage?

Feeling fatigue after a massage is a common and normal reaction. Massages influence blood flow, blood pressure, and heart rate, resulting in feelings of tiredness.

What is the 1st rule of massage therapy?

The first rule of massage therapy is to ensure the comfort and safety of the client. This includes creating a comfortable and relaxing environment, using proper techniques and pressure, and communicating effectively with the client to ensure that they are comfortable with the massage.

What is the most pleasurable type of massage?

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

What are the 5 strokes of massage?

The five basic massage movements are effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, and vibration.

Why can't you shower after a massage?

The temperature of the water can cause your muscles to tense up, which can negate the benefits of massage therapy. The heat can also increase the risk of dehydration. Inflammation may also occur if you are already feeling sore after the massage. Wait at least 1-2 hours before showering or taking a bath.

Do massage therapists massage the groin?

No worries, your therapist can easily work over the sheet to get to these pesky problem areas. Groin & pelvic pain can stick around for quite some time, so I would always suggest at least three or more sessions of massage to make a difference.

Should I take off all my clothes during a massage?

This massage is about you and it's important that you feel comfortable. For some people that means leaving some clothing on. For others, it means taking it (mostly) all off. There is no right or wrong, this is your massage.

What is the best time of day to get a massage?

Specifically, for: Stress aim to schedule an evening massage as it tends to relieve the physical and mental stress accumulated during the day. Alternatively, you can also get such a stress-relieving experience from an afternoon massage (ideally after work). Muscle pain you can aim for an evening massage as well.

How long do the benefits of a massage last?

The duration of massage effects varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the type of massage, individual response, and the purpose of the session. Generally, the benefits of a massage can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

Is a 30 minute massage worth it?

30-Minute Massage: If you're short on time or just need some quick attention to a specific area, like your neck, shoulders, or back, this is ideal. It's a fast way to get some relief and fits easily into a busy day. 90-Minute Massage: This one is for when you really want to unwind and address deeper issues.

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