How long should I rest after a session?

Published: November 20, 2025
Updated: November 20, 2025

Post-massage recovery necessitates specific rest periods to maximize the positive effects on your body and limit any soreness associated with the deep tissue procedures performed. Your body requires a few moments to assimilate the physiological changes related to the treatment. The appropriate methods for post-recovery prevent any discomfort that might occur while allowing the beneficial effects of the treatment to take effect.

Hydration Protocol

  • Drink 16oz water immediately post-session
  • Continue sipping water hourly for 6 hours
  • Avoid caffeine/alcohol 12 hours post-massage

Temperature Therapy

  • Apply cold packs for acute soreness first 24 hours
  • Switch to heat therapy after 48 hours
  • Limit applications to 20-minute intervals

Activity Modification

  • Rest completely for first 2 hours
  • Begin light walking after 6 hours
  • Avoid lifting over 10 pounds for 48 hours
Recovery Timeline by Intensity Level
Session Intensity
Mild (30 min)
Light Activity Resume4 hoursFull Activity Resume24 hours
Session Intensity
Moderate (60 min)
Light Activity Resume24 hoursFull Activity Resume48 hours
Session Intensity
Intense (90+ min)
Light Activity Resume48 hoursFull Activity Resume72 hours
Based on clinical massage guidelines

Staying properly hydrated is still important to aid in flushing any metabolic byproducts you release while getting a massage. Water helps support lymphatic drainage and can help prevent post-massage headaches or fatigue. Suppose you experience a measurable loss of fluids through perspiration in an intense massage session. In that case, it is helpful to have beverages with added electrolytes.

Movement progression follows a structured process to regain movement after treatment. Gently stretching is performed after 24 hours, with all the stretching focusing on the treated area. Light cardio, such as walking, starts after 48 hours. Full workouts, such as weight training, are started after 72 hours at the longest time frame.

Be aware of warning signs that require professional attention. Contact your therapist if the soreness persists or increases after 48 hours. Seek medical help for radiating pain or numbness. A persistent headache lasting over 24 hours may indicate dehydration or changes in your blood pressure.

Sleep quality improves greatly with proper recovery. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep the night after treatment. Also, use extra pillows if the shoulders or back require support for optimal positioning. This gives the healing tissue the best chance of healing and helps consolidate the job done.

Read the full article: Understanding Deep Tissue Massage Benefits

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