Getting a massage is great, but you probably have lots of questions about massage therapy that you think are odd but want answered anyway. Don’t worry, that’s what Zeel is here for (well that, and delivering 5-star massages to your home in as little as an hour).
Here are some massage questions we get asked a lot.
Can I drink alcohol before a massage?
Massage is relaxing. Drinking can be relaxing, too. But drinking and massage don’t mix well, for a number of reasons. Remember: first massage, then alcohol — never vice versa.
Read more: The Truth About Mixing Alcohol and Massage
Is it rude to fall asleep during a massage?
It’s not normally considered polite to fall asleep when you have company. But when you’re getting a massage, falling asleep is a compliment to your massage therapist. Doze away.
Read more: Is It OK to Fall Asleep During a Massage?
Can massage treat tinnitus?
People with tinnitus hear constant sounds when none actually exist, usually ringing or buzzing. Massage can help ease tightness and stiffness in the neck and jaw muscles — one of the causes of tinnitus.
Read more: Ears Ringing? Massage Can be an Effective Treatment for Tinnitus
Can I get a massage while pregnant?
Massage during pregnancy — commonly called prenatal massage — is a great way to ease the aches and pains of carrying a baby. That said, take precautions. Make sure your massage therapist is certified and experienced with pregnancy massage, don’t use a massage table with a hole for the belly, and check with your doctor first.
Read more: All Your Pregnancy Massage Questions Answered
Does cupping work?
The jury is still out. Cupping is an ancient technique designed to relieve muscle pain by dislodging “stuck blood.” If you want circular marks on your skin, however, cupping is very effective.
Read more: What is Cupping? And Does Cupping Work? A Zeel Investigation
I have acne. Will massage oils clog my pores?
Some massage oils can indeed block pores. But others are non-comedogenic, meaning that you can use them at will even with pimples. There are other non-oil options for massages that you might prefer as well.
Read more: Will Massage Oils Make My Acne Worse?
Can massage help me lose weight?
Massage obviously isn’t a substitute for healthy eating and exercise, but it can lower levels of cortisol, the stress-eating hormone. High levels of cortisol make weight gain more likely. So in effect, yes, massage can help you on your weight loss journey.
Read more: Lose Weight and Belly Fat with Massage
Can massages help headaches and migraines?
Getting rid of headaches doesn’t have to mean taking pills. Massage is just one natural remedy that can cure your headaches and even migraines.
Read more: 7 Surprising Natural Headache Remedies You Can Try Today
Are massages tax deductible?
If you live in the United States and you want to deduct the cost of massages from your taxes, you have options. Learn some ways you might be able to deduct massage expenses in our handy guide.
Read more: Can I Deduct Massages On My Taxes?