As summer and the hot weather comes to a close and back to school draws close, our lives can become very busy trying to fill these last days of summer with fun and preparing for a new school year which is why it is important to continue to take care of ourselves and our health.
One of the simplest things that we can do for ourselves is to stay hydrated by drinking water and consuming hydrating foods.
The human body is said to be made up of approximately 70% water and is essential in helping our bodies function at its best. Proper hydration helps to improve feelings of fatigue, helping to keep energy levels optimal for our busy lives. It can also help manage headaches, body aches and muscle pains, recovery from exercise and physical daily tasks, as well as helps with maintenance of healthy skin. In addition to these things it helps to support systems such as the circulatory and the lymphatic system. These two systems are integral in maintaining efficiency and function throughout the entire body as they are responsible for the nutrient distribution to our muscles, soft tissue and organs, regulating fluid balance and supporting our immune system by carrying the necessary cells that help to fight infections and remove waste.
How Hydration Enhance Massage Therapy/Lymphatic Drainage Treatment
Massage Therapy treatments involve the manual manipulation of muscle and soft tissue with the goal of stimulating circulation and alleviating muscle aches and pains, headaches as well as a number of other ailments. Being hydrated before the massage can help to soften the muscles, making them more pliable, allowing the therapist to work deeper with less pain thereby reducing the risk of muscle soreness post massage as well supporting the body’s natural recovery process.
Lymphatic Drainage is a specialized treatment that directly affects the lymphatic system which is responsible for regulating fluid balance within the body in addition to working with the immune system to help fight infections and remove wastes from the body. Drinking water helps to prevent congestion of the lymphatic system ensuring the proper flow of lymph fluid throughout the body by flushing out waste materials released during your treatment, reducing the appearance of swelling and puffiness, leaving you feeling lighter and more energized.
As general guideline it is best drink a glass of water 1-2 hours before your massage and then another glass after treatment to promote the replacement fluids that have been moved around during the massage, support the flow of lymph fluid, reduce muscle soreness, alleviate headaches, dizziness and/or feelings of tiredness post massage.
If you’re like me and find drinking plain water a little boring, you can try infusing cucumber, lemon, ginger or any fruit of your choice for a subtle but enjoyable flavour.
Try these water infusion recipes:
Lemon and Ginger Water
- 4 cups cold filtered water
- ½ lemon sliced
- 1 inch ginger sliced
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Ice
Cucumber and Lime Water
- 4 cups cold filter water
- ½ cumcuber sliced
- ½ lime slices
- 6-8 mint leaves
- Ice
Whether you’re booking a massage to ease muscle tension, support recovery, or simply take some time for yourself, don’t forget the basics.
Drink your water, take a breath, and give your body the care it deserves.
Book a discovery call or initial consultation with Tanya to learn more.
Tanya Hamlet, RMT, MLD
Sage Naturopathic Clinic
