What Happens to Your Body When you Get a Massage?

They're about as relaxing as they get, and in general, most can't wait until their next massage appointment. They're that good. The room is quiet and warm, you get to lay on a padded surface, and a trained professional will rub out your kinks from head to toe – even asking how well you like the pressure throughout. Really, there's no argument that massages are pretty amazing.

But what exactly do they do to make you so sore the next day? And are there any times you shouldn't get a massage? 

In general, you should only book a massage if you're healthy. No colds and no hangovers. Women who are pregnant should wait until their second trimester before going in for a prenatal session. This is due to the amount of toxins that will be pushed throughout your body. During a massage, the muscles are soothed and eased, but that also causes toxins to be pressed out of muscles and released back into the bloodstream. It's what can make you so sore the day after a massage. (When sick or hungover, re-releasing those chemicals can make you feel far worse, or sick all over again.) 

It's also a good idea to drink plenty of water so your body can naturally flush out those same substances. The more water you're able to drink, and the better you can keep the body fluid, the less sore you will be. Best of all: you should feel extra good in a few days, once your muscles have recovered and you can take advantage of your new knot-free state. 

You might find yourself especially tired. Not just because of the relaxing session you just had, but because your body is working overtime at repairing, flushing, and getting itself back to normal. 

There are plenty of healthy benefits to booking a massage, consider signing up today for a relaxing way to remove bodily toxins. 

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The 10-Minute Sore Muscle Cure

Muscles sore? Do they strain with movement and make it almost cringe-worthy to perform certain movements? You’re in luck. New research shows there’s an easy and fast cure: a 10-minute massage. Rather than looking to painkillers, diet change, an increase in liquid intake, or any other method, a good old-fashioned massage may just provide the best results. 

However, to obtain the highest levels of success, it should be a short one. Too long and you can actually increase the levels of pain, while a session that’s less than 10 minutes can mean that not enough blood has been stimulated. 

Because of the way muscles work and settle after an injury or exercise, this short stimulation has shown to provide the most efficient levels of relief. A medium level of blood flow and oxygenation. Without the need for chemicals or any other substance and its side effects. 

Additionally, research shows that, with this length of time, the body activates and awakens genes that actually increase healing levels. Meaning you can not only gain immediate relief, but actually speed up the health of your muscles in the process. A natural and effective way to increase the healing process once and for all. And because it only lasts for 10 minutes, your massage will be on the cheap side of salon services. Or, ask your significant other to help in the healing sector (be sure and offer to reciprocate the next time they’re sore). 

While there are all types of treatments and available offers, it turns out one of the most effective is a natural, substance-free one. An act that can be performed in the comfort in your own home, and in 10 minutes or less. Look to this proven treatment method the next time you’re sore or stiff for an easy and budget-friendly way to speed along your muscles’ healing efforts. 

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What Can a Massage Do For your Health?

Oftentimes, when people thing of massages, they think of something that is extravagant or unnecessary. That it’s simply a pampering day at the spa and a prime way to spend time off work. And while that can sometimes be true, that’s not to say there are only superficial benefits to getting a massage. From health perks to gaining some much needed relaxation, it’s a practice that’s actually healthier than you might think. 

Just taking the time to lie down and rest your muscles is step one. This time allows the body to relax and redistribute weight to areas of the body that aren’t normally under pressure. (While the ones that are can get a break.) Those with back pain can also take this time to find a position that best treats their aches. For instance, with a zero gravity table, or one that dips the legs or shoulders for maximum weightless-ness.

Massage Health Benefits

Adding a massage, however, brings on an even bigger bout of rest and relaxation. During the process, your muscles will be contracted and turned into a properly recuperating machine. Toxins will be gently removed from the body, while circulation will be increased. Both from the toxin removal, and from the various pressure points that are massaged during the process.

After a massage, it’s a good idea to drink plenty of water. That way the body can fully flush out excess chemicals, while providing for plenty of hydration for healing muscles. However, you should always talk with your masseuse about proper post-massage rituals. (Your doctor will also be a good source of guidance, especially for those suffering from long-term pains.) 

Whether looking to relax or for a way to help your muscles heal, a massage can be a great way to tackle them both. Talk to your local masseuse today about getting started.

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