Why Your Body Needs Time to Transition After a Massage

"I could just stay here and sleep."

I've heard that more than a few times after a massage. Usually followed by a little groan when someone remembers they have to get dressed and go back to the real world.

I always get a kick out of that. Not because I want anyone dreading the rest of their day, but because I know they've finally gotten comfortable enough that they don't want to move!

And it got me thinking. Why are we always in such a hurry to get up and go?

That Feeling After a Massage

People come in for massages for all kinds of reasons. Some have been dealing with tight shoulders or sore muscles. Others have had a stressful week and just need an hour where nobody needs anything from them.

Whatever brought you in, it can take a little while to settle down.

You get comfortable on the table, the massage begins, and eventually your mind stops running through everything you need to do later.

Then, just when you're feeling wonderfully relaxed, it's time to get up.

Some people feel sleepy afterward. Others are a little quiet or need a moment to get their bearings. Occasionally, someone feels lightheaded when they first sit up, which is a good reason to take things slowly and let me know how they're feeling.

There's no rule that says you have to jump right up the second your massage ends.

What's the Rush?

Think about what usually happens after a massage.

You get dressed, gather your things, check your phone, and start thinking about where you're headed next. Maybe there's grocery shopping to do or dinner to figure out. Maybe you're going straight back to work.

Before you've even left the parking lot, you're back to your regular routine.

I know we can't put our lives on hold all afternoon. Believe me, I understand busy schedules!

But I've always felt that the time right after a massage deserves a little attention, too.

Maybe you want to sit quietly for a few minutes. Have some water. Or just enjoy not having to do anything for a bit.

You don't need an elaborate post-massage routine. Sometimes it's nice to simply have nowhere else you need to be for the next few minutes.

This Is Part of Why I Created Sanctuary

I've heard plenty of clients say they wish they could stay on the massage table a little longer. And I've always thought, why not give them that option?

That's part of what led me to create the Sanctuary Experience at DK Spa.

When you book a massage with Sanctuary Time, your appointment includes 10 minutes to settle in before your treatment, your full massage, and another 15 minutes afterward.

And those last 15 minutes? They're yours to spend however you'd like.

If you're comfortable on the table and want to stay there for a few more minutes, go ahead! Maybe you'd rather get up, put on your robe, and relax in the chair with some cucumber water and a snack. That's fine, too.

I'll let you know when your treatment is finished that you have the extra time. What you do with it is entirely up to you.

I've made a few changes around the spa to make that possible, and I'm really enjoying being able to offer it.

The extra time is already included in your scheduled appointment, so there's no need to arrive early or plan to stay late. And right now, there's no additional charge for Sanctuary.

A Few Things to Remember After Your Next Massage

Whether you're coming in to see me or getting a massage somewhere else, here are a few things I'd encourage you to remember.

Take your time getting up. Especially if you're feeling sleepy or a little lightheaded. Sit up slowly, give yourself a moment, and let your massage therapist know if you aren't feeling quite right.

Have some water if you're thirsty. You don't need to force yourself to drink a huge amount of water after a massage. Just stay comfortably hydrated like you normally would.

Pay attention to how you feel. Some days you'll leave feeling energized and ready to tackle your afternoon. Other days, you might feel like going home and taking a nap. Everyone responds differently, and even your own experience can change from one appointment to the next.

And if you can, try not to schedule yourself so tightly that you're already worrying about your next stop before your massage is finished.

Enjoy Those Last Few Minutes

I don't expect anyone to spend the rest of their day sitting around after a massage. We all have things to do!

I just want my clients to have a choice about how they finish their appointments.

Maybe you'll use every minute of Sanctuary. Maybe you'll be ready to get up and head out a little sooner. Either way, that time is there for you.

And if you're one of those people who says, "I could just stay here and sleep," well, now you can stay a little longer. 😉

If you'd like to try the Sanctuary Experience, look for “+ Sanctuary Time” when booking your next massage or facial at DK Spa.

See you soon!