Sit up slowly and swing your legs to one side of the table. Give yourself a few moments to check if you’re feeling lightheaded or dizzy before leaving the massage table.
Gently twist your waist from side to side, reach for your toes, and stretch your arms across your body for a quick stretch! Ask your massage therapist about stretches to improve muscle recovery if you are experiencing pain or tightness in any specific areas.
If you are coming from work or the gym, bring a clean change of clothes to put on after your appointment.
Plan some time to decompress after your appointment if your schedule doesn’t allow you to end the day with a massage. Having time to stretch, meditate, and pay attention to your body’s response after an appointment can help you retain some of the relaxing physical and mental effects of massage. If you can, clear out an entire day dedicated just to self-care. Being totally free of responsibilities can help you feel really calm after you leave your session.
If you follow a strict workout routine or schedule, try to exercise before your massage. You’ll still get the benefits of physical activity but be able to fully enjoy your massage. [6] X Research source
Veggie sticks and hummus or yogurt with fruit are some great examples of light snacks you can enjoy. Resist the urge to immediately eat a large meal after your appointment. Feeling hungry after massage is normal due to increased blood circulation—which helps the function of your digestion—but eating a heavy meal too quickly can make you feel sluggish and reduce your relaxed state.
Use cold water when you take a shower. A hot shower might sound relaxing, but heat can cause inflammation in muscle injuries, causing damage to the muscle tissue you just repaired with massage therapy. [9] X Research source
Take the remainder of your day to decompress from emotion so you can enjoy the relaxing physical benefits of your massage. Take a walk, journal, or go home to stretch out and watch your favorite TV show — massage is about taking care of yourself physically and mentally. [11] X Research source
Add 1 to 2 cups of pure magnesium sulfate Epsom salts to a standard bathtub you run warm water. Let it fully dissolve before getting in the bath. [13] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Don’t run the water too hot. Hot water can cause muscle inflammation and stress any preexisting injuries you might have. [14] X Research source
