Benefits of an Epsom Salt Bath During a massage a lot of metabolic waste are moved as the muscle tissues are manipulated. It is recommending that drinking water will help flush these toxins out, but sometimes you may still feel sore for 24-48 hours after your massage. This is caused from stressed muscles that are blocking nutrients and oxygen from getting to where they need to go, and thus cause inflammation that allows toxins to build up in your muscle tissue. The inflammation and toxins contribute to pain and stress. Deep Tissue Massage breaks up and releases the built-up of toxins by loosening the muscles. When the toxins are released, blood and oxygen will once again circulate as they should through your body. Being properly hydrated before you go to your massage appointment and drinking plenty of water after one of these massages is highly recommended. Massage therapists will often recommend taking a Hot Epsom salt Bath after a massage because of its benefits. Epsom salt baths promote perspiration and draws toxins - mainly uric acid - through the pores of the skin. When you take an Epsom Salt bath the skin readily absorbs the magnesium and sulfate. As the sulfate is absorbed into the skin, toxins are drawn from the cells through the pores of the skin. The magnesium reduces the inflammation in the muscles and relieves pain. The magnesium also helps the body bind serotonin, which is a chemical that promotes a sense of well-being and relaxation. The relaxation you feel helps alleviate stress, which drains magnesium from the body and can cause tight muscles. How to prepare and Epsom salt bath: Add 2 cups of Epsom salts to warm water and soak for 15-30 minutes. Be sure to have some drinking water with you as an Epsom Salt bath can be dehydrating. Soak Sprains and Bruises: Epsom Salt will reduce the swelling of sprains and bruises. Add 2 cups Epsom Salt to a warm bath, and soak. *CAUTION: Epsom-salt baths are contraindicated in cardiovascular or high-blood-pressure conditions. Ask your doctor, in such a case, whether you may take the bath. *CAUTION: When taking hot baths of all kinds, be sure to have someone nearby in case you are overcome by dizziness or faintness. It is also best to set a timer for accuracy as your sense of time may not be accurate. The information above is intended for general reference purposes only. Angie Armstrong-Dupre does not warranty and shall have no liability for information provided in this article. Each individual person may react differently to a particular suggested use. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical exam. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional before starting any new treatment.