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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Tips for Giving an at-home Massage

When is the last time you treated yourself to a massage? A deep, or even quick one to help induce relaxation and melt away the day’s stress? Even though they host so many perks, it’s a habit that few stick with on a regular basis. Whether they’re heading to the salon or having their significant other perform them at home.

The fact is, however, the latter is far more budget (and schedule) friendlier. And easier to do than you might think. 

To give a great massage at home, without the training, follow these simple tips.

Angle matters. Have your significant other lie on the bed or couch while you stand. If there’s not enough room between you, you won’t be able to reach or apply necessary pressure. 

Next, communicate. Ask your partner to tell you when to give more pressure, what feels best, and so on. It’s likely you can watch them sink deeper into a relaxed state when you hit the right stress-release spot. But ask to make sure, especially through the first few massages. (And if they don’t want to hear it during, take a few minutes after to hash it out.)

Apply even pressure. Might seem easy, but pay attention to what your hands are doing at all times. It’s a skill that will get easier with time and allow you to earn a feel for the craft.

Don’t skimp. Massage evenly throughout the body. Whether your main focus is the neck, back, or a sore leg – be sure to hit all muscles and tendons in that area. (Don’t worry, if something hurts or tickles, they’ll tell you.)

Set a timer. When giving the massage, it’s always easier to make it shorter than the muscles need. (And when getting, you want it to last longer.) Set a timer to ensure you’re spending the proper amount of time on each section, and are best approaching the healing/relaxation process. 

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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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