Massage therapy helps the body by relaxing joints and muscles, improving circulation, flushing out toxins, and promoting flexibility. Though the treatments are designed to make you feel your best, there’s more you can do afterward to enjoy the full benefits. Here are some do’s and don’ts for getting the most out of your next massage.

Do:

Drink water.

Massages can dehydrate your muscle tissue and leave you feeling dizzy, so it’s important to drink a significant amount of water. Rehydrating helps flush out metabolic waste that causes pain and knots in the body, and it will also help mitigate soreness the day after your appointment.

Eat a light snack.

Because massages speed up circulation, you’ll digest food faster. This might leave you feeling lightheaded later, so you’ll need to refuel your body. Having a healthy snack like fresh fruit or vegetables can bring up your blood sugar. Even if you feel hungry after a long treatment, avoid eating a heavy meal, as this can leave you feeling bloated and lethargic. 

Take a warm shower or bath.

Wish your massage therapy session lasted longer? Extend the benefits at home by taking a bath with Epsom salts. The salt helps release toxins from the body, increase circulation, and preserve that calm and relaxed feeling from your massage. Add candles and music for extra ambiance with your soak.

Don’t:

Exercise right away. 

Stay away from intense exercise at the risk of becoming lightheaded, or impeding on the soft tissue work done during the massage. Yoga or stretching can be helpful, but avoid strenuous activities like cardio or weightlifting. 

Drink alcohol.

Drinking on the day of your appointment will cancel out any detoxification benefits of massage therapy, so you won’t receive the treatment’s full effect. Additionally, alcohol will make you feel even more dehydrated at the end of the session. 

Overdo your schedule.

Massages can lower your heart rate and blood pressure and increase endorphins so you feel happier and less stressed. While the treatment can be an effective reward for working hard, avoid booking the appointment on a day when you’re already busy. Any kind of stress is likely to undo its mental benefits. 

Treat yourself to a trip to Dynasty Foot Massage in Honolulu, HI, where you’ll be cared for in a relaxed environment, with highly trained professionals there to make you feel comfortable. Their therapists specialize in foot reflexology and foot and body combination massages. Give them a call at (808) 952-9999 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to see their full list of massage therapy services.