One of the best parts about getting a massage is that you don’t have to do anything other than lay back and relax. In preparation for your zenned out bliss, there are some things you’ll definitely want to avoid to make sure you reap all the benefits of massage therapy (think stress reduction, lymphatic detox, reduced inflammation, improved breathing…) We asked our team of expert massage therapists at Massage Sense for their tips and here they are.
Drink
Water, yes, but alcohol is a real no-no. Be warned, “when you get a massage your body moves toxins in your body, therefore any ill effects the alcohol has caused may be amplified.”. Your best bet is to be hydrated, not tipsy prior to your massage.
Sunbathe
This is tough to avoid on vacation, but our experts recommend spending the day-of your massage out of direct sunlight to help prevent sunburn. Sunburn can be very sensitive to touch. The last thing you want to do is have somebody rubbing your sunburnt skin.
Feel ill
While you can’t control when your immune system fails you, it’s best to cancel your massage if you’re feeling under the weather. If you are sick or have an infection, massage may actually spread the infection to other parts of your body. It is best for everybody if you cancel allowing at least 24 hours notice and reschedule for a few days later when you are healthier.