The ultimate post-massage glow: What to expect and how to maintain it
After a great massage, you might feel like you’ve stepped out of a spa and into a whole new world – calm, refreshed, and ready to take on anything. That feeling, often described as the “post-massage glow,” is more than just a pleasant aftereffect. It’s the result of real, positive changes happening in your body and mind. Whether you’re new to massages or a regular, it’s worth knowing what’s behind that glow and how to make the most of it. Let’s deep dive into what happens after a massage and how you can extend the benefits for a lasting sense of well-being.
What happens to your body during a massage?
Before we talk about what you’ll feel after a massage, let’s first look at what happens during the treatment. A massage isn’t just about relaxation; it has a real, tangible effect on your body. When a therapist applies pressure to your muscles, it improves circulation, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to flow to your muscles. This helps reduce muscle tension, soothe aches, and even improve your skin tone.
Additionally, massages stimulate the release of endorphins – your body’s natural “feel-good” hormones – which play a key role in that euphoric feeling you may experience post-massage. Your nervous system gets a nice reset too, with a decrease in cortisol (the stress hormone), leading to feelings of calm and relaxation. These physical and hormonal changes are the foundation of that glowing, rejuvenated feeling.
What to expect right after your massage
As soon as your massage ends, you may notice an immediate shift in how you feel. The most obvious change is the wave of relaxation that takes over your body. Tension you didn’t even realise you were holding begins to melt away, and your mind feels lighter.
You might also feel a deep sense of physical relief. Whether it’s a stiff neck, sore back, or tense shoulders, many people experience a significant reduction in discomfort right after a massage. This isn’t just psychological; it’s a direct result of the muscle relaxation and improved circulation. If you do experience some discomfort after your first session, check out how to relieve muscle soreness post-massage.
Emotionally, massages have a powerful effect too. Many people feel a sense of mental clarity or even a temporary mood boost. The release of endorphins creates a “massage high” that can make you feel euphoric or just incredibly content. It’s a natural, feel-good state that helps you leave the massage table with a smile.
The science behind the post-massage glow
The post-massage glow is more than just a warm, fuzzy feeling – it’s science in action. One of the key things that happens during a massage is the stimulation of the lymphatic system, which helps remove toxins from the body. When this system is activated, it flushes out waste products and helps your body detoxify, contributing to that refreshed feeling.
Alongside this, the improved blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients to your tissues, aiding recovery and giving your skin a radiant, healthy glow. On a hormonal level, the reduction in cortisol levels reduces stress and anxiety, while the boost in serotonin and dopamine levels lifts your mood and helps you feel at peace.
Will massages be rough and intense?
Many people worry that they’re going to feel sore during a massage. In other words, the therapist is too rough with them, and they don’t enjoy the experience. Know that not all experiences are going to be intense. Often, they’re exaggerated by movies and television shows, as well as on the internet. To ensure that this isn’t the case for your first one, here’s some useful advice.
Choose the Massage Carefully
Of course, there are many different options you can choose from. Some are longer and more intense than others. For example, a deep tissue massage might be one that feels uncomfortable for some people. After all, it’s targeting the deeper layers of the muscle. The same goes for a sports massage, which is supposed to be after intense exercise and to help with recovery. Instead, you’re better off trying a Swedish massage, sleep massage or adding hot stones into the mix.
Talk to your therapist
Therapists are there to make sure you have a good time. They want to know if you’re concerned about anything and if there’s anything they can do to put your mind at ease. Tell them that this is a new experience for you and that you don’t want it to be rough and intense. Then, they can make sure they’re using a gentle technique.
Conclusion
That ultimate post-massage glow isn’t just a luxury – it’s the result of real, beneficial changes happening in your body. From reduced tension and improved circulation to a boost in your mood and energy levels, the feeling is truly transformative. To keep the glow going, focus on hydration, gentle movement, and a mindful approach to your well-being.
The editorial unit
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTube
RSS