07/28/2026
Myth Buster!
Massage does not literally detoxify the body.
It does however compress the muscles forcing out stagnant waste filled fluid. This allows oxygenated blood to rush back in.
Feeling thirsty or sore after a massage is not an actual sign of "toxins leaving the body", these are symptoms of changes in your nervous system, localized inflammation and physical manipulation.
When we (the massage therapist) tell you to drink plenty of water, it's because it helps your circulatory system transport the metabolic wastes to your kidneys for elimination. Also,- let's face it, most of us don't drink enough water so a reminder to drink water is always helpful!