How do you keep that post massage feeling as long as possible? Consider the type of massage you’ve just had, then try out some (or all) of these simple solutions.

1. Stretch It Out

You’ve heard never stretch a cold muscle, and been told stretching after exercise is best. The friction and pressure applied during a massage creates a lot of heat in the muscles, which will last for a few hours following treatment. This is a great opportunity for stretching. Not only will it help to maintain the relaxed feeling of the muscles, but you will likely experience a deeper more effortless stretch. Those who have good body awareness you may be sensitive to restrictions and tightness. If not, you will no doubt notice areas during the massage that feel more tender (may indicate tightness). Your therapist will review these areas with you to ensure the proper muscles are being stretched and the body maintains balance.

2. Hydration Is Key

Massage releases toxin build up from the muscles- just one of the reason why you feel great after a treatment. Toxins must then be facilitated away via the lymphatic system. Lack of water makes this process less efficient, and can be a cause of ‘day after soreness’. If getting in your 8 cups after a massage seems a little much, plan ahead and start before the appointment.

3. Preferred Posture

During a typical appointment, workday or exercise postures are sure to come up. Immediately following a massage is the best time to break poor posture patterns while your muscles are relaxed and agreeable. More than that, returning to poor posture will put strain directly back on your recently ‘un-strained’ muscles.

4. Encourage Movement

Deep tissue massage, while effective, can cause some short term discomfort. Muscles have a tendency to stiffen up the evening following a deep massage – a side effect from inflammation. Keep stiffness at bay with light exercise like walking to encourage blood flow and mobilize the joints.

5. Soak it

Taking a relaxing bath the evening of your massage will continue the process of relaxing and releasing those tense muscles. Try adding a cup or two of epsom salts for a boost in detoxification. If your therapist worked on an injury or applied deep pressure, be cautious of water temperature. If it’s too hot you risk increasing inflammation. Your therapist will advise you if an area requires icing.

6. Roll It

Have a certain muscle that is always tight and constantly nagging? A chronic tightness rarely releases after one massage treatment. And often requires frequented appointments. Speed up the recovery process by massaging it at home. A foam roller or a strategically placed tennis ball can decrease tightness and help maintain progress in-between appointments.

7. Routine

Find a balance that works for you and your muscles. Then schedule your next appointment in advance. Sticking to a routine will keep tension to a minimum and create the most improvements in the long run.  Dealing with an injury or chronic tension may need more frequent sessions. Once these initial issues are addressed the sessions can be spaced further apart in a way that maintains progress – extending the benefits of massage more and more each time.

Click here for more suggestions on frequency and duration of sports massage treatments.

Jolene