How Much Water Should I Drink Before a Massage

I’ve covered the reasons behind why you can get dehydrated from having a massage and the importance of drinking water before and after a massage.

But, how much water should you drink before a massage?

It’s not as strange of a question as some of you reading this might think, and it’s a question I’ve heard lots of times before.

To answer this question, there is no set rule about how much water you should drink. But you need to be well hydrated, while of course feeling comfortable.

The best case scenario is that you drink plenty of water daily as part of your healthy lifestyle. Trying to load up before a massage is a bad idea as you’ll feel bloated and uncomfortable.

The daily recommended intake of water is usually more than the average person drinks. It’s;

• 3.7 liters, or 15.5 cups of water for men, and
• 2.7 liters, or 11.5 cups of water for women.

You will be fine if you drink less than this however, as long as you’re not dehydrated.

Everyone requires a different amount of water to be healthily hydrated. Factors such as size, metabolism, lifestyle, etc, all make a difference.

If you’re in doubt you can ask your doctor, or even your massage therapist how hydrated you are when you go for a massage.

They can tell by rolling your skin and seeing how it reacts. If you’re dehydrated you’re going to feel more drained after, take longer to recover, and your body will not flush toxins as quickly.

Drinking Water in Preparation for a Massage

If you know you have a massage booked a few days or even a week ahead then you can start increasing your water intake.

Take a look at how much you currently drink each day. If you drink somewhere near the recommended amounts mentioned above, pat yourself on the back. Don’t change anything.

If you’re like most of the population and you don’t drink nearly enough you need to start drinking more on the run up to your massage.

Just add an extra large glass of water a day, then 2 glasses after a couple of days, then finally 3 glasses the day or two before your massage.

Drink a large glass or two the day of the massage. Leave at least an hour before the massage without eating or drinking anything. Needing to pee or having an uncomfortable stomach can be a nightmare.

Don’t Forget to Drink Plenty After a Massage

It’s worth reminding you that you need to drink plenty of water shortly after a massage, and the following days.

Your body will be flushing toxins, and the increase in circulation requires extra fluids otherwise you’ll feel sluggish or even lightheaded.

So, there you have it. Plenty of reasons to start drinking more water. You’ll feel better for it, enjoy your massage more, and recover quicker.