The Best Ways to Get More Out of Your Massage
Who doesn’t love a good massage? The soothing music, relaxing atmosphere, and post-massage chi make massages a well-enjoyed self-care service; massages are therapeutic in several ways.
When planning your appointments, you want to make sure you make the most of them. Below are some of the best ways to get the most benefits from your massage sessions.
Schedule Your Massage Strategically
When booking your next massage therapy appointment, consider doing it on a day where you have minimal commitments. Ideally, you will have at least a few hours post-session where you can continue to relax afterwards.
Soaking in the benefits of massage therapy is something that occurs for up to a week after your treatment. Try to keep the rest of the week stress-free by reducing your workload at home or at the office.
It’s good to take at least a few uninterrupted hours to yourself each day during this week where you can continue to enjoy the tranquillity and rejuvenation of your therapeutic massage . If the above is not feasible, consider booking at the end of a workweek.
Exercise Beforehand
Exercising before your massage will help your body be prepared for the session due to the increase in blood circulation to your muscles. Something quick such as a cardio warm-up or 30-minute routine is perfect before your appointment. Try to work out no more than 2 hours before your massage therapy treatment.
Just like it’s a good idea to stretch after a workout, the massage may help alleviate soreness after your workout while helping reduce muscle fatigue, improve recovery, and help in reducing soreness. While the benefits of massage therapy are often related to relaxation and muscle tightness, massage can sometimes be a great measure to take before a workout if mobility is an issue for you.
Shower Beforehand
Especially in the case of working out before your massage therapy appointment, it’s a good idea to shower beforehand. You’ll go into the appointment feeling fresh and clean, rinsing off sweat and any environmental pollutants from the air that you don’t want being rubbed into your skin.
The warm water that comes from a shower can also help to relax your muscles, preparing them for the treatment. The warmth can even put you in a calm state of mind so that you can melt into relaxation when you lay down for your massage.
Don’t Eat/Drink Beforehand
The nature of massage therapy lowers your blood sugar because it’s relaxing, so you’ll want to have proper sustenance and energy levels going into your appointment. Avoid drinking alcohol or eating a heavy meal before your massage therapy appointment.
Since the benefits of massage therapy include stimulating the digestive system, it’s a good idea to only eat something small within 2 hours of your appointment. Be sure to stay well-hydrated as well. Since alcohol can dehydrate you, it’s best to avoid drinking before your appointment and stick to water.
Be Honest & Open With Your Massage Therapist
Massages are meant to be therapeutic, relaxing, and enjoyable so it is important to openly communicate with your massage therapist. If you’re finding that the pressure is too much and you’re uncomfortable, or not hard enough, let your massage therapist know. They are happy to adjust the pressure as often as needed for you to enjoy your appointment.
You should also let them know beforehand if there are any specific spots you want them to focus on. It’s your appointment, and they want to make sure you get what you need from it.
Book Your Massage Today!
Here at Treadwell, our massage therapists and ready to give you the therapeutic massage you need. Visit us online to book an appointment or contact us today at (289) 337-1657.
