This is a wonderful follow up to our last post. This goes hand-in-hand with the belief that massage helps remove toxins from the body. Many massage therapists tell you that you need to drink water, as it helps the body “flush” out toxins.
Is this true?
As discussed in the last blog, the body already has mechanisms in place to eliminate toxins and waste. The difference here is that water is known to provide the medium for toxins to leave the body. Now of course, we need water for these processes as we sweat, pee, and poop out toxins all the time. Water makes this possible and less painful. For the most part this distinction isn’t very important as water is vital for all of these processes.
So why do so many Massage Therapists suggest to drink water after a massage?
Massage can be a pretty dehydrating experience. Your muscles are being worked in a way that is equivalent to exercising for the same amount of time. The cells of your body need rest and hydration to recuperate. Ever needed a drink or to visit the bathroom after a massage? As the muscles are being worked out of their constricted states, the body starts to heat up and blood flow increases. Our bodies recognize this and then sends the signal for water to regulate back to homeostasis.
Still not sold on drinking more water? Well what if I tell you some of the health effects and conditions caused by dehydration?
- peptic ulcers
- gastritis
- heartburn
- arthritic and low back pain
- asthma
- allergies
- hypertension
- elevated cholesterol
- depression
- obesity
- Angina
- Kidney stones
Besides, water plays an important role in our health. Being the medium for toxin removal is only one of the things water can do for our bodies. The list of benefits from drinking water is HUGE. It helps to:
- lubricate joints
- regulate body temperature
- prevent constipation
- aid in digestion
- improve mood
- improve physical performance
- improve cognitive function
- protects the spinal cord
- lose weight (less calories)
- Prevent kidney stones
Our bodies are about 60% water, it makes sense that dehydration can cause so many issues. It’s the main component in every fluid and lubricant in our body. Of course it can help our bodies function better if there is more of it! Massage Therapists want you to drink water after a massage not just for all the reasons
Enlightened Ways Massage 