Why You Might Feel Gross After a Massage
You just had a massage. You expected to float out of the room, hydrated and glowing. But instead?
You're tired. Your body aches. Maybe you're even a little sniffly or emotionally weird. Did the massage give you the flu?
Short answer: nope.
Longer answer: your nervous system is just going through a *very real* physiological shift.
Let's break it down - science style.
What People Call "Massage Flu"
Some people say they feel sick after a massage. They blame it on "toxins being released" from the muscles. Sounds dramatic - and honestly, it is.
Here's the truth: your body doesn't store toxins in your muscles like aTupperware container of sadness. If it did, we'd all be dead by now.
What you're probably feeling is the aftermath of your stress system powering down - and it can be surprisingly intense.
The Stress -> Immune Connection
When you're stressed (like... all the time, let's be real), your body runs on adrenaline and cortisol.
These chemicals:
- Keep your brain sharp
- Keep inflammation in check
- Temporarily boost parts of your immune system so you can keep functioning
Think of it like running on emergency backup generators. You might not feel the effects of low-grade illness or exhaustion - because your system is too jacked up to notice.
Then, massage happens.
Your nervous system shifts from "fight or flight" to "rest and digest." Your body lets out a sigh of relief.
And that's when things get weird.
Cue the Let-Down Effect
Once your adrenaline drops, your immune system and inflammatory responses downshift, too. If you were on the edge of a cold, recovering from stress, or ignoring aches for weeks... it might all hit at once.
This is called the let-down effect, and it's legit:
- That 3-day "cold" after finals or a big event? (check)
- Feeling emotionally wiped out after relaxing? (check)
- Getting a headache after finally stopping for the first time in weeks? (check)(check)(check)
Your body isn't betraying you. It's finally telling you something - and now you're calm enough to hear it.
So... Is This Bad?
Nope! In fact, it's part of how your body regulates and recovers. Some tips if you're feeling off after a massage:
- Drink water (not because of "detox," but because an appropriate amount is important for normal functioning)
- Rest if your body asks for it
- Move gently if you're stiff (like walking)
- Eat something nourishing if you're lightheaded or spaced out
- Don't panic - most of the time, it's temporary
If you feel significantly unwell, of course check in with a medical provider. But for most folks, this is your nervous system doing exactly what it's supposed to after being allowed to chill for a minute.
Final Thoughts
Massage doesn't cause the flu.
Massage doesn't release toxins.
Massage might just be the first time your body has had space to speak up - and while that message isn't always "aaaaah," it's always worth listening to.
Want to feel the difference for yourself - or just talk nervous system shop? I'm always down to nerd out. :)
(Just don't ask me about liver detox smoothies.)
-Jamie
*not medical advice disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. If something feels off to you, go to a doctor (a medical doctor / MD / PCM / Etc.). None of this information is to diagnose, treat, or cure anyone / anything. (Had to say it).