16/07/2021
My top four aftercare recommendations explained and why they are important 💆🏼♀️
DRINK WATER 💦
We all know about 60% of our body is made up of water. Getting a massage can help flush out toxins from our bodies. Water is what helps the body to flush out these toxins hence why we suggest drinking water. Massage helps to increase the circulation of both the blood and the lymphatic system. Your blood needs water in it to keep it moving and doing its job of bringing oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, organs and other tissues. Water also helps to take away the waste products created by the cells in these areas.
REST 😴
Heading to work or the gym is not the best option straight after a massage. Try to book your massage for a time when you know you can go straight home. Your muscles have been given a workout and need time to recover. With the muscles being lengthen and worked, you run the risk of injury if you then go on to do an intense workout or activity. Over exerting your body after a massage means you run the risk of un doing all the hard work your therapist has done to make you feel better.
HAVE A BATH 🛀
Having a nice warm bath is another method to completely relax your body. I recommend adding Epsom salt’s to your bath. Epsom salt’s will help with easing any aches and pains. The magnesium in the salts will absorb through the skin, while the warm water will help to open your blood vessels, which will then help to increase circulation.
HEAT OR ICE PACK 🔥❄️
A heat pack can be used to help improve circulation and blood flow to an area. The heat absorbs into the muscles helping them to relax, soothe discomfort and heal damaged tissue.
An ice pack will help to reduce any inflammation or pain by numbing the area. The cold will restrict the blood vessels which helps to reduce the bloodflow (therefore the swelling) to the area. Place the ice pack on the inflamed area for 10 minutes. Don’t leave it any longer as the body will counteract the effects and do the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve.