You book a massage expecting to leave feeling refreshed, relaxed and ready to take on the day. But sometimes, instead, you walk out feeling sleepy, slightly heavy or as though you could happily take a two-hour nap.

Is that normal?

Usually, yes.

Your body has shifted out of “go mode”

Many of us spend much of the day in a low-level state of alertness. Work deadlines, phone notifications, traffic, family responsibilities and poor sleep can all keep the body feeling tense, even when we do not consciously notice it.

Massage gives you permission to stop.

As your breathing slows and your muscles begin to relax, your nervous system can shift away from its usual high-alert state. Once the body finally eases off the accelerator, you may suddenly notice just how tired you were.

The massage has not necessarily made you tired. It may simply have removed some of the tension that was masking your fatigue.

Deep relaxation can feel unfamiliar

Some people are so used to tight shoulders, a clenched jaw or a constantly busy mind that genuine relaxation feels almost unusual.

After a massage, the body may feel softer, heavier and calmer. This is often interpreted as tiredness, but it can simply be the sensation of your muscles no longer working overtime.

Think of it as your body saying, “Great, we can finally stand down.”

The type of massage can make a difference

A gentle relaxation massage may leave you feeling peaceful and sleepy, while a firmer sports or deep-tissue treatment can sometimes make the muscles feel temporarily fatigued.

If areas of your body have been tight or overworked for a long time, focused massage can leave them feeling similar to how they might feel after exercise: looser, but slightly tender or tired.

This should generally be mild and short-lived. Massage does not need to be painfully intense to be effective, so tell your therapist when the pressure feels too strong.

Should you drink extra water?

It is a good idea to arrive reasonably hydrated and have some water after your appointment, especially if you have been exercising, travelling or spending time in hot weather.

However, you do not need to force down litres of water to “flush out toxins.” Your liver and kidneys already handle the body’s waste-removal processes.

A normal drink of water, a light meal and a little rest are usually all that is required.

How to get the best result after your massage

After your treatment, try to avoid immediately rushing back into a packed schedule.

A few simple choices can help the relaxed feeling last longer:

• Take a short walk rather than sitting immediately.
• Avoid a very intense workout straight afterward.
• Have a normal meal and stay comfortably hydrated.
• Take a warm shower or bath if your muscles feel tender.
• Aim for a good night’s sleep.

You may also notice that you sleep particularly well on the night of your massage.

When should you mention how you feel?

Feeling relaxed, sleepy or mildly tender after a massage is common. However, tell your therapist if you experience sharp pain, significant bruising, dizziness, numbness or discomfort that continues to worsen.

Your massage should always be adjusted to suit your body, comfort level and reason for booking.

The bottom line

Feeling tired after a massage is often a sign that your body has finally slowed down.

Rather than seeing it as a negative side effect, it may be worth treating it as a reminder: you were probably carrying more stress and tension than you realised.

Sometimes the most productive thing your body can do is rest.

Ready to give your body a chance to switch off?

Book a massage with The Rub and let our therapists tailor the pressure and treatment style to how your body feels on the day.