The Importance of Hydration Before and After Massage

If you’ve had a massage, chances are the massage therapist encouraged you to drink plenty of water after your massage.  This is due in part because massage promotes of state of dehydration in the body because fluid (and toxins) are essentially squeezed out of the tissues during the massage.  Drinking water helps to flush toxins that are released during massage out of your body.  But did you also know that proper hydration prior to your massage is as equally important?

If your muscles and body tissues are properly hydrated, they are nice and plump.  When these tissues are plump, they are more malleable.  This allows the massage therapist to work deeper with less pain, therefore releasing even more toxins, as well as minerals that have been stored in the tissues.  The proper level of hydration will also allow the body to eliminate these toxins more efficiently.

Water also assists the circulatory system in the body.  With all of these unsavory substances swirling around in the body, the circulatory system is able to circulate these substances out of the body, with the help of the lymphatic system.  This will ensure the body is able to purify itself through efficient elimination so infection and illness do not occur.  If you have ever experienced nausea or headache after a massage, chances are you were not properly hydrated prior to your massage.

How do know if you are getting enough water?  Take your body weight, divide it in half and that is the number in ounces you should be drinking.  It is best to avoid caffeinated beverages such as coffee before your massage, as caffeine has a dehydrating effect on the body.  Additionally, caffeine might make you jittery, therefore making you unable to relax completely during your massage.  Beverages such as coconut water are also extremely hydrating.  In addition to hydrating the body, coconut water also contains minerals such as potassium and magnesium. 

Typically, if it is hot outside or if you have been exercising, your body will need more water to replenish what is lost through sweating.  Pregnant women will also require more water.  As always, it is best to consult your doctor if you have any questions on how much water you should be drinking.