Why do you pee so much after a massage?

Author: Candice Hessel  |  Last update: Monday, November 3, 2025

First off, massages are dehydrating. Kneading and working muscle gets fluid pumping out of the soft tissue and into your circulatory system, where it heads toward your kidneys. That's why many people have to pee right after a massage.

What are the symptoms of detoxing after a massage?

Hydrating and resting can help alleviate these symptoms. After a massage, mild detox symptoms can occur as the body eliminates toxins. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle soreness, and headaches due to the release of lactic acid and other waste products.

Why do I have to go to the bathroom after a massage?

Massages are dehydrating. We massage your body, loosen things up and get your blood pumping. Which increases the rate at which urine passes through your kidneys. So after your massage, pee and drink more water to rehydrate.

Does your body retain water after a massage?

Yes, absolutely. Any time your muscles are sore (mine often are after a good massage), it means your muscles are swollen. And swelling = water weight. Just keep drinking water, it'll flush out in a day or two.

How does massage affect the urinary system?

The body's sphincter muscles keep the urine from leaking until the body is signaled to eliminate it. Massage therapy activates the urinary system. Fluids in the muscles are pushed into the lymphatic system, which is then filtered and excreted via the urinary system.

Why do I get sore after a massage?

Is it normal to pee a lot after a massage?

First off, massages are dehydrating. Kneading and working muscle gets fluid pumping out of the soft tissue and into your circulatory system, where it heads toward your kidneys. That's why many people have to pee right after a massage.

Does lymphatic drainage come out in urine?

These vessels route the fluid through the lymph nodes, which house immune cells that kill off abnormal cells and other harmful substances. The lymph fluid then drains back into the blood stream, which flows through the kidneys where waste is removed and passed out in your urine.

Why do I weigh more after a massage?

As already mentioned, in an earlier study we had documented increased vagal activity and gastric motility following massage therapy, and these two variables were, in turn, related to weight gain (Diego et al, 2005).

Where does lymphatic fluid go after massage?

When something disrupts this process, lymph collects in your arms, legs, ankles or other parts of your body, making them swell. A massage therapist uses lymphatic drainage techniques to move lymph from your tissues to your lymph nodes, which eases the swelling.

What happens if you don't drink enough water after a massage?

If you do not drink water after a massage, you may experience some short-term effects such as feeling thirsty or experiencing dry mouth. It is important to drink water after a massage to help your body flush out any toxins that may have been released during the massage.

Why do they say not to 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.

Why do I smell after a massage?

In conclusion, it is not uncommon to notice a smell on your skin after receiving a massage. Factors such as the type of oil used, sweating during the session, and poor hygiene practices can all contribute to any odors present.

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.

Why is my pee dark after a massage?

Your urine may become darker and smelly due to the stimulation of the kidneys. Your urination frequency may also increase throughout the day because your body is ridding itself of all the excess toxins. Lastly, you may feel sore and fatigued following your session.

What chemical is released after a massage?

Endorphins. While technically not a toxin, the release of endorphins during a massage is a significant benefit. These "feel-good" hormones naturally boost mood and relieve pain.

How do you know if you got a bad massage?

Experiencing sharp pain or excessive discomfort during or after the session is a clear indication that the massage wasn't beneficial. While some discomfort can be normal, especially with deep tissue massage, it should never cross the line into sharp pain.

How do I know if my lymphatic system is clogged?

Lymphedema signs and symptoms include:
  • Swelling of part or all of the arm or leg, including fingers or toes.
  • A feeling of heaviness or tightness.
  • Restricted range of motion.
  • Recurring infections.
  • Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)

What is the best drink for lymphatic drainage?

Here are our top picks for the best teas to keep your lymphatic system flowing beautifully:
  • Yaupon Tea. Yaupon tea, a unique herbal tea made from Ilex vomitoria, is a fantastic option for lymphatic drainage. ...
  • Ginger Tea. ...
  • Chamomile Tea. ...
  • Peppermint Tea.

Do you lose weight after lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage massage may improve the appearance of cellulite but will not get rid of it completely. The most likely cause of weight loss immediately following the massage is the loss of excess fluid and potential bowel movement that occurs afterwards.

Why do I look better after a massage?

It increases circulation to your facial tissue, resulting in brighter, youthful-looking skin. By stimulating lymphatic drainage, facial massage moves toxins out of cells and reduces swelling and puffiness – helpful especially after eating a salty dish and of course in the mornings.

Does lymphatic massage make you pee more?

Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.

What color is urine with lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage into the urinary tract, or chyluria, is another source of white urine discoloration.

What is the fastest way to cleanse your lymphatic system?

Dry brushing involves gently rubbing the skin with a body brush. The lymphatic system runs close to the skin, so stimulation from the brush keeps it flowing well. Since it only takes a few minutes to dry brush just before you shower or bathe, this is one of the fastest ways to cleanse your lymphatic system.

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