If you've ever had a massage, you may recall your therapist encouraging you to drink plenty of water afterward. But have you ever wondered why hydration is emphasized post-massage? In this article, we delve into the vital reasons behind this advice and shed light on the significance of proper hydration after a revitalizing massage session.
Facilitating Detoxification
Water plays a pivotal role in the detoxification process. During a massage, toxins that have been stored within your body are released into the bloodstream and body tissues. While this is undoubtedly beneficial, it's essential to aid your body in effectively eliminating these toxins. Hydrating after a massage supports the function of your kidneys, which are responsible for processing nutrients and filtering out toxins. By drinking water, you ensure that your blood can move quickly and easily through your kidneys to flush out free radicals and enhance cellular oxygenation. This, in turn, empowers your immune system and promotes overall well-being.
Countering Dehydration
Multiple studies state that 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated, and with symptoms of dehydration ranging from fatigue to dry skin to difficulty concentrating, it's easy to identify with that statistic. Combatting dehydration that may exist as a baseline heading into a massage session can help reap even more benefits from the treatment. The firm pressure and kneading strokes of the massage cause fluid and cellular debris to be released from your muscle tissues into the vascular system, and proper hydration ensures that the process is carried out properly. To keep your body well hydrated, a general guideline is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water per day, adjusting that amount up if you are exercising for long periods, and even higher if that exercise is outdoors or in warm temperatures.
Managing Metabolic Waste
Metabolic waste refers to the byproducts generated within our bodies, which serve no purpose and can hinder performance and our well-being. During a massage, these waste particles are released at an accelerated rate. For individuals receiving manual lymphatic drainage, it's especially important to pay attention to the role of hydration in managing metabolic waste. Proper hydration allows your muscles to relax and aids in the efficient flushing out of toxins, preventing muscle constriction and promoting healthy circulation. Embracing the power of water can significantly contribute to your overall comfort and wellness post-massage.
Alleviating Excessive Soreness
It's not uncommon to experience mild soreness in areas that were the focus of your massage. Proper hydration after your session can help alleviate excessive soreness and discomfort. By consuming additional glasses of water beyond your normal post-massage intake, you provide your body with the hydration it needs to facilitate muscle recovery. Adequate water intake assists in reducing inflammation, promoting efficient healing, and ensuring a more comfortable post-massage experience.
Pro Tip: Pre-Massage Hydration
Hydrating before your massage can be just as beneficial, if not more so, than hydrating afterward. Drinking water prior to your session helps prepare your body for the elimination of toxins as they are released during the massage. It supports the kidneys in efficiently processing and eliminating these substances, fostering a healthy and productive detoxification process. Prioritizing hydration both before and after your massage aids in replenishing your immune system and revitalizing your overall well-being.
How Much Water Should You Drink After a Massage?
Determining the optimal amount of water to drink after a massage depends on various factors, including your body weight, activity level, and individual needs. A general guideline is to aim for at least 8 to 16 ounces (240 to 480 milliliters) of water immediately after your massage. This initial intake helps boost circulation and accelerate the movement of toxins released during the massage session. Additionally, continue drinking water throughout the day to maintain hydration.
To calculate a more specific water intake recommendation, consider drinking half your body weight in ounces. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds (68 kilograms), aim to consume 75 ounces (2.2 liters) of water per day. Adjust this amount based on your activity level, climate, and individual hydration requirements.
It's worth noting that certain factors, such as intense physical activity or high temperatures, may increase your water needs. Listen to your body's signals and drink water whenever you feel thirsty, as thirst is an indicator of dehydration.
At Resolve Wellness, we believe that a great massage can rejuvenate your body and enhance your overall health. However, it's equally important to recognize the significance of hydration after your session. By hydrating adequately, you support the detoxification process, counter dehydration, manage metabolic waste, optimize the benefits of your massage, and alleviate excessive soreness. Remember to drink water and prioritize hydration to amplify the positive effects of your massage experience.
Schedule a Massage With Us!
Schedule an appointment with us at Resolve Wellness and embark on a journey of revitalization and wellness. And don't forget to hydrate afterward – water is the key to unlocking the full potential of your post-massage.
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Ariela Liberman is a Marketing Associate and a staff writer for Resolve Wellness, with a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies. Born and raised in San Diego, she is a Southern California native with a passion for writing, digital marketing, health, and wellness.
Reviewed by: Erynne Hill, MS, ATC, HHP, BFRC, a Nationally Certified Athletic Trainer and Massage Therapist who has been a part of the healthcare field since 2002. She is the Director of Resolve Wellness, specializing in manual lymphatic drainage and prenatal massage. Erynne has extensive knowledge of both massage and physiology, even receiving her Master's degree in Exercise Physiology from San Diego State University.