The Do’s and Don'ts of Getting a Massage

April 8, 2026

The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting a Massage

Before, During, and After Your Session

Getting a massage should feel simple—but a few small things can make a big difference in how much you actually get out of it. If you’ve ever left thinking “that was nice” instead of “I feel amazing,” this will help.

Before Your Massage

What you do before your session sets the tone for how your body responds.

Do:

Drink water so your muscles aren’t tight or dehydrated
Have a light meal if you’re hungry (nothing heavy)
Drink something warm like tea to help your body relax
Let your therapist know what areas need attention
Arrive 15 minutes early so you’re not rushed

Don’t:

Show up dehydrated
Drink alcohol beforehand
Stay quiet about pain or problem areas
Drink cold beverages right before your session
Have sugary drinks, which can leave you feeling sluggish and tight

During Your Massage

This is where you either get the full benefit—or hold yourself back without realizing it.

Do:

Breathe slowly and naturally
Let your body stay loose and relaxed
Speak up if the pressure needs to be adjusted
Allow the warmth (heated table, hot stones, etc.) to help your muscles release

Don’t:

Try to help or hold your body in place
Stay tense
Ignore discomfort or say nothing if something feels off

After Your Massage

What you do after your session plays a big role in how long the results last.

Do:

Drink hot or room temperture water
Drink something warm—especially hot ginger tea
Take it easy for a few hours if you can
Pay attention to how your body feels afterward

Hot ginger tea is one of the simplest ways to support your body after a massage. It helps keep circulation moving, supports digestion, and keeps the body warm and relaxed. If you want a simple way to make fresh ginger tea, you can read more here:
https://www.waconiaspa.com/blogs/news/2-dollar-root-asian-cultures-2500-years

A simple way to think about it:
At the end of the night, a pizza shop doesn’t rinse grease down the drain with cold water—they use hot water so everything keeps flowing instead of thickening and clogging. Your body works in a similar way. Warmth keeps things moving. Cold can cause things to tighten and slow down.

Don’t: