If you are prone to significant hunger pangs or blood sugar dips, it's a good idea to eat something modest but nutritious—like a banana or an energy bar—before your massage. And you may want to have a snack on-hand for after the massage is complete.
Before a Massage: Timing: It's generally best to eat a light meal or snack about 1-2 hours before your massage. This gives your body time to digest, so you won't feel uncomfortable during the session. Food Choices: Opt for easily digestible foods. Avoid heavy, rich, or greasy meals that might cause discomfort.
After your massage, wait at least 30 minutes to an hour before eating. This allows your body to fully absorb the benefits of the massage and settle into a state of relaxation.
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.
The snug proximity of the diaphragm and stomach is why it can be difficult to take a deep breath after eating too much. Similarly, if the therapist is trying to massage the diaphragm, the unavoidable nudging of your stomach will likely feel uncomfortable if it's recently been filled with food.
If you have a busy lifestyle and seek relaxation after a long day of work and family commitments, an evening or before-bed massage can help you relax your body and mind. On the other hand, a morning or afternoon massage can increase your energy levels and help you face the day.
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.
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.
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.
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.
After a massage, your body is in a state of relaxation and recovery, and the massage oils applied to your skin continue to nourish it. Taking a hot bath immediately could strip away these benefits. Generally, it's recommended to wait at least two to three hours after a massage before taking a bath.
Take a warm shower
First, the warm water will begin allowing your mind and body to relax making it more open to receiving massage. By cleaning your body prior to a massage, you can also mitigate some personal hygiene insecurities, if you have any, plus it is greatly appreciated by your massage therapist.
After a massage, you may feel hungry. This happens due to the increase of blood circulation, which maximizes body systems function including, our digestive system. And, by eating a large meal, you will end up feeling bloated, sluggish, or lethargic.
Drinking water improves the body's ability to deal with fatigue and pain in general. Along with hydrating, take a day to rest after a massage, and try to avoid intense exercise to give your muscles a chance to catch their breath.
Many people tip around 15-20% of the massage cost.
This range is a good starting point and is commonly accepted across different settings: at-home or mobile therapists, franchise spas or clinics, or an individual massage therapist. If you're unsure, it's always a safe bet to stick within this range.
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.
"Because a massage therapist or aesthetician is providing a service, you should tip them in addition to the cost of your service." Keep in mind that when you get a massage or facial at a spa, you're paying the spa for the service you receive from the aesthetician.
It's generally advised to wait at least 30 minutes to an hour after a massage before eating; this gives your body time to transition from the relaxed state of the massage to a state ready for digestion.
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.
1. Slow down when you need to. Speed up when you don't need to slow down.
For first-timers, a Swedish massage is often recommended as the best choice. It uses gentle techniques like long strokes and kneading to promote relaxation and improve circulation. Swedish massage is soothing, relieves muscle tension, and reduces stress. It's a great introduction to massage therapy.
For a full-body massage, you can opt to keep your pants on or go completely in the buff.