What to Do Before and After a Massage

A great massage can leave you feeling light for days — or you can undo the benefits in an hour. Here are simple habits for before and after.

Before your massage

Eat lightly. A light meal 1–2 hours before is ideal. A heavy meal makes lying face-down uncomfortable; an empty stomach can leave you light-headed.

Hydrate. Drink a glass of water before you arrive.

Avoid alcohol. It dehydrates you and can make you dizzy when combined with heat and relaxation.

Skip a hard workout right before if you're having deep tissue. Gentle movement is fine.

Arrive early. Ten minutes of calm before you start makes the whole session better.

Right after your massage

Get up slowly. Sit on the edge of the bed for a moment before standing.

Drink water. Massage and steam can leave you thirstier than you realise.

Take your time. Use the shower, rest in the lounge, and don't rush out. Read about jacuzzi and steam if you plan to use them.

For the rest of the day

Keep it calm. If possible, don't schedule a stressful meeting or a hard workout straight after.

Eat a proper meal. Something light and nourishing.

Gentle stretching helps keep the looseness — a slow walk is perfect.

Sleep early. Many people sleep unusually well after a massage. Let yourself.

Shower later if you can. If you had an oil massage, letting the oil sit for a while helps your skin.

Feeling sore or tired? That's common

• Mild soreness for a day after firm or deep tissue work is normal, a bit like after exercise.
• Sleepiness is common — your body has switched into rest mode.
• Feeling emotional occasionally happens when you release stress. It passes.

If you have sharp pain, bruising, swelling or soreness that lasts more than two days, contact us and consider seeing a doctor. Next time, ask for lighter pressure — see our pressure guide.

Make it last

The benefits fade faster when stress builds up again. A regular rhythm helps — read how often you should get a massage.