There's one thing that affects the quality of a spa day but is often overlooked: what's in your stomach. Lying face down straight after a heavy lunch, or stepping into a hot sauna on an empty stomach, can cloud the experience. In this article we share practical tips on eating before and after a spa day.
Before the Session: Light and Well-Timed
- Timing: A light meal an hour and a half to two hours before a massage or hammam is ideal.
- What to eat: Easily digested options such as yoghurt, fruit, a wholegrain sandwich, a vegetable omelette or a bowl of soup.
- What to avoid: Fried food, heavy sauces, very spicy and gassy foods can cause discomfort on the table.
- Don't arrive hungry: An empty stomach can lead to dizziness, especially in heat areas. If you're short on time, a handful of nuts or a banana is enough.
Hydration
- Drink water at regular intervals throughout the day.
- Rather than drinking a lot right before your session, take small sips; otherwise you may need a break during it.
- If you'll use the sauna, steam room or hammam, your fluid needs increase.
Things to Avoid
- Alcohol: It upsets fluid balance, is risky in heat areas and, combined with massage, can cause dizziness.
- Too much caffeine: It makes it harder for the mind to settle. Enjoy your morning coffee, but skip the third cup before your session.
- Very salty food: It can increase the feeling of puffiness.
After the Session: A Gentle Return
After a massage or hammam the body is relaxed and calm. To keep that feeling:
- First drink a glass or two of water or herbal tea. At O'SPA Sky, herbal tea is served in the Relax Lounge.
- Then choose a light, nourishing meal: grilled fish or chicken, plenty of vegetables, a salad, lentil soup.
- A heavy, greasy dinner can quickly erase the lightness the session gave you.
We look at common beliefs about drinking water after a massage in Drinking Water After a Massage: Myths and Facts.
For a Full Spa Day
If you're planning a programme of several hours:
- Morning: A light breakfast.
- Midday: Fruit or a light snack between hammam and massage.
- Evening: A calm, light meal once the sessions are over.
You'll find a step-by-step plan for gifting yourself a spa day here.
Special Circumstances
With diabetes, pregnancy or a special diet, plan your session times around your meals and keep any snack you need with you. Don't forget to share your health information with your therapist.
In Short
- Eat light, eat on time.
- Drink water throughout the day.
- Keep alcohol out of your spa day.
- Round off the day with a light, nourishing meal.
To plan your spa day, browse our services or contact us. O'SPA Sky at Skyland Istanbul is open every day from 09:00 to 23:00.
