Welcome to the ultimate relaxation dilemma: should you bask in the warmth of a sauna before relaxing even further with a soothing massage, or vice versa? Both options soothe and rejuvenate your body, but which one should come first?
The good news is that there is no wrong way to do it, and it often comes down to personal preference. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long week or seeking therapeutic relief, we're here to guide you through making the choice that best suits your wellness journey!
Benefits of Using a Sauna Before Massage
Beginning your wellness session in a sauna warms up your muscles, making them more pliable and receptive to massage. This sequence can deepen relaxation and enhance the therapeutic effects of your massage.
As your body unwinds in the gentle heat, your mind also gets a chance to relax, preparing you for the ultimate relaxation that follows. Plus, the warmth from the sauna increases blood flow, which can make the subsequent massage more effective in releasing muscle tension.
Related Post: Traditional Finnish Sauna vs. a Far-Infrared Sauna: The Differences
Benefits of Getting a Massage Before Using a Sauna
Alternatively, receiving a massage before using a sauna can be just as beneficial. Massage therapy targets specific areas of tension, allowing your body to enter the sauna in a state of deep relaxation. This can enhance your body's ability to detoxify, as your muscles have already been worked and loosened. For those who prefer ending their wellness session with a period of relaxing silence, entering a sauna after a massage provides an extra soothing element.
Related Post: Release Your Stress: Deep-Tissue Massage Benefits Explained
Science-Backed Benefits of Both
Diving even deeper, both of these wellness services offer science-backed benefits. Saunas, by promoting sweating and increased circulation, can aid in detoxification and improve cardiovascular health. Following this with a massage can amplify these effects, as massage also promotes circulation and relaxation.
If you prefer to begin with a massage, your sauna experience will be an even more effective detox tool, releasing endorphins and improving lymphatic function.
Saunas promote:
Improved circulation
Lower blood pressure
Deep relaxation
Detoxification
Stress relief
A 2021 study emphasized the benefits of regular sauna use for people who worked in high-stress occupations, like firefighters, paramedics, first responders, and police officers, among others. These occupations have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and other disorders related to oxidative stress, poor diets, and irregular sleep.
Massage promotes:
Muscle repair and healing
Improved circulation
Pain relief
Stress relief
Deep relaxation
Massage therapy can help break up lactic acid after an intense workout to help muscles recover faster, and it can help reduce pain and inflammation. Using sauna and massage services together can enhance the benefits of both!
Related Post: Sauna and Cold Plunge Therapy: A Natural Approach to Health and Recovery
Personalizing Your Wellness Session
Deciding whether to use a sauna before or after a massage can depend on what you want to achieve. If relaxation is your goal, starting in the sauna might be your best bet. But if you're seeking to maximize detoxification and deep tissue recovery, beginning with a massage could be more beneficial.
Remember, both are incredibly relaxing, so do whichever combination feels best for your body.
Sauna & Massage Services in Springfield, MO
Now that you've explored both sides of the sauna and massage coin, why not try both and see which one suits you best? Visit Theta Wellness Center to explore your options and consult with us to customize your relaxation session. Let us help you become the best, most relaxed version of yourself! Book your appointment online or give us a call at 417.812.5135.