Is a massage better on an empty stomach?

Author: Dr. Gillian Hand  |  Last update: Sunday, December 28, 2025

It is generally recommended to eat a light meal or snack about 1 to 2 hours before your massage session. This allows enough time for your body to digest the food and ensures that you have enough energy during the massage. Opt for easily digestible foods like fruits, vegetables, or a small portion of lean protein.

Is it better to get a massage on an empty stomach?

It is generally recommended to eat something light & nutritious approximately 1-2 hours before a massage. You don't want to go in on an empty stomach, but on the other hand anything too heavy can leave you feeling stuffed. Good options are fresh fruits & veggies, nuts, smoothies and soup.

Is it better to eat before or after a massage?

It's generally safe to eat after a massage, but it's best to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour. Eating immediately after a massage could cause discomfort due to the body's focus on digestion, potentially diminishing the relaxation benefits. Opt ...

What should you not do before a massage?

  • 1. Eating a heavy meal before the massage
  • 2. Drinking alcohol or caffeine before the massage
  • 3. Being dehydrated
  • 4. Wearing jewelry or other accessories that could interfere with the massage
  • 5. Not communicating with your massage therapist about any injuries or areas of sensitivity Upvote Profile photo for Ssaamir

What is the best time to get a massage?

The best time to get a massage is in the evening. It may be the calmest, least busy part of your day while also aligning with goals for unwinding before bed. Getting a massage in the evening is great for stress relief as well as for helping your body recover from the normal wear and tear of the day.

Why Most Massage Therapists Fail (Don't Watch If You Are Easily Offended)

When not to do a massage?

Contraindications of Massage Therapy
  • Cuts or open wounds.
  • Bruises.
  • Varicose veins.
  • Broken bones.
  • Burns.
  • Some skin conditions.

What is the first rule of massage?

1. Slow down when you need to. Speed up when you don't need to slow down.

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.

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 not to say 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.

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.

Should I shower before a massage?

Be sure to come in fresh and clean before your appointment. You don't want any sweat, chlorine or grime rubbed into your skin. Plus, it's just the polite thing to do for your massage therapist. If you have time, a nice, warm shower can help relax your mind and your muscles before your treatment.

How much should I tip a massage therapist?

Standard Tip Percentage Guidelines for a Massage

A good rule of thumb for tipping in the massage industry is between 15% and 20% of the total service cost, which is the standard practice in the broader service industry.

What happens if you eat before a massage?

So, what's the best timing for a massage in relation to your meals? It is generally recommended to eat a light meal or snack about 1 to 2 hours before your massage session. This allows enough time for your body to digest the food and ensures that you have enough energy during the massage.

How to get the most out of a massage?

10 tips to get the most from your massage
  1. Remember to breathe normally. ...
  2. Relax your muscles and your mind. ...
  3. Drink extra water after your massage.
  4. Don't get up too quickly and do allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session. ...
  5. Be prepared to schedule several massage sessions.

What is the most requested massage?

Swedish massage is arguably considered the most popular massage type, appearing on a majority of spa menus worldwide. This Western massage utilizes the following techniques—effleurage (stroking), friction (rubbing), petrissage (kneading) and tapotement (rhythmic choppings)—for a truly relaxing spa treatment experience.

What type of massage is best for inflammation?

The Best Types of Massage for Inflammation
  • Swedish Massage. The Swedish massage is a classic choice for reducing inflammation. ...
  • Deep Tissue Massage. A deep-tissue massage might be more effective for deeper inflammation. ...
  • Lymphatic Drainage Massage. ...
  • Trigger Point Therapy. ...
  • Hot Stone Massage.

What body part feels the best in a massage?

The back is one of the most requested areas in any massage. It's where many people carry stress, tension, and discomfort from sitting, standing, or physical activity. Therapists focus on the upper, middle, and lower back to release tightness and improve mobility. The neck and shoulders are another high-tension zone.

Why masseuse burp when massaging?

It's possible that a masseuse burps because he or she receives the effect of the massage itself. “I mean, masseuses use their energy when applying pressures. So maybe, since they're using their own hands, and the therapy oils, there's a stimulation on their palms.

Why do I go to the bathroom so much after a massage?

Massage relaxes the tension, releasing the circulatory pathways and allowing nitrogenous metabolic waste to dump into the system. Drinking provides your kidneys with the water they need to effectively eliminate the newly liberated waste. So, once again, it comes back to pee.

What are the don'ts after massage?

Here are seven things you should not do after a Thai massage.
  • Don't Eat Heavy Meals. After a Thai massage, your body is relaxed, and eating heavy meals can affect your digestive system. ...
  • Steer Clear of Alcohol. ...
  • Avoid Strenuous Activities. ...
  • Skip the Caffeine. ...
  • Avoid Hot Showers or Baths. ...
  • No Smoking. ...
  • Avoid Stressful Situations.

Do you turn over during a massage?

During the massage, your therapist is likely to ask you to turn over.

What are the four T's of massage?

The four T's of massage are:
  • Skin/body temperature.
  • Muscle/facia tone.
  • Muscle or tissue texture, and finally.
  • Tenderness to palpation – which is subjective to the patient.

What are 3 instances when massage is not recommended?

Certain skin conditions, such as open wounds, burns, rashes, or contagious skin infections (like impetigo or fungal infections), should not be treated with massage. Even non-contagious skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema may be aggravated by massage if not handled carefully.

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