Why Do Massages Dehydrate You?
Getting a massage is one of the easiest and most pleasurable ways to relieve stress and relax. However, experts have discovered that massage therapy carries some risks, including dehydration. Here are a few reasons why massages dehydrate you:
1. Sweating During a Massage
The most common reason why massages dehydrate you is because of the amount of sweating that ensues during a massage. During a massage, your body releases toxins through sweat, and this release can cause dehydration.
2. Heat and Pressure Relief
During a massage, heat and pressure are used to activate and relax your muscles, and are also responsible for helping to reduce dehydration. When heat is applied to the skin, it encourages an increase in sweat, which in turn helps to dehydrate your body by removing excess water from your system. Additionally, massage pressure helps to promote the release of toxins from your muscles, and this combined with the increase in sweat can lead to dehydration.
3. Increased Blood Flow
During a massage, increased blood flow is encouraged as a means of relieving tension in the muscles. As a result, your heart rate increases and your body requires more water to maintain itself. The increased blood flow causes your body to release large amounts of water, and this water depletion can lead to dehydration.
Ways to Stay Hydrated During a Massage
Although massages can be dehydrating, there are several ways to keep yourself hydrated during a massage:
- Drink Plenty of Water Before a Massage – Drinking plenty of water before a massage can help prevent dehydration.
- Avoid Hot Massages – Hot massages can cause your body to sweat more than necessary and can further lead to dehydration.
- Drink Water During a Massage – It’s important to keep yourself hydrated during a massage by drinking small amounts of water during your session.
- Eat Light Meals Before a Massage – Eating light meals prior to a massage may help your body to hold onto fluids better.
Although massage therapy is a great way to relax and relieve stress, it can also come with some risks, including dehydration. By following the above tips, you can help minimize the risks associated with massage therapy, and keep yourself healthy and hydrated.
2. How does dehydration occur during a massage?
Dehydration during a massage occurs when a client sweats heavily during the session due to muscle tension and exertion, and therefore is losing more fluids than they are taking in. The massage therapist can help to reduce dehydration by incorporating hydrating measures, such as offering water to the client both before and after the massage, and allowing the client to drink it during the session. Additionally, the massage therapist can help to reduce the client’s sweating by using cold stones, cold compresses, and/or misting on their skin with a spray bottle.
1. What type of massage is known to dehydrate the body?
Deep tissue massage is known to dehydrate the body due to its intensity and the amount of pressure that is applied during the massage.