Do massages reduce water tension? True or false?


If you’ve ever experienced heavy legs or swelling, you might have wondered whether a good massage can actually help reduce water retention. Let’s break it down and separate fact from fiction!
What exactly is water retention?
Water retention occurs when the body stores excess fluid instead of eliminating it properly. The result? Swollen legs, ankles, or hands, sometimes accompanied by a feeling of discomfort or heaviness. Several factors can contribute to this:
- Poor blood or lymphatic circulation
- High salt intake
- Lack of physical activity
- Hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy, etc.)
Can a massage really help reduce water retention?
TRUE! But under certain conditions.
A well-performed massage can stimulate blood circulation, encourage the body’s natural drainage process, and help reduce the feeling of heavy legs.
At You Spa, we don’t perform lymphatic drainage with wooden tools, but our manual massage techniques are still beneficial in activating circulation and easing discomfort linked to water retention.

How massages help with water retention:
Boosts blood and lymphatic circulation: Supports the body’s natural ability to eliminate excess fluids
Relieves heavy legs: Ideal if you often experience swelling or muscle fatigue
Relaxes and soothes the body: Beyond its circulatory effects, massage reduces stress, which can also play a role in water retention
But keep in mind, a massage alone won’t solve everything!
If water retention is caused by an underlying medical condition or an unbalanced diet, a massage alone won’t be enough. To maximize the benefits, it’s essential to adopt healthy habits:
- Stay active (walking, yoga, swimming…)
- Maintain a balanced diet (less salt, more potassium-rich foods)
Drink plenty of water (yes, drinking more actually helps reduce water retention!)

Why try a massage at You Spa?
At You Spa, our wellness massages are designed to release tension, improve circulation, and provide a deep sense of relaxation. While we don’t specialize in lymphatic drainage massage, our manual techniques naturally support circulation and help relieve swelling and discomfort.
Our skilled therapists use gentle, flowing movements, combined with natural oils with relaxing properties, to help you feel lighter and refreshed.
So, if you often experience heavy legs or swelling, why not try a relaxing massage and feel the difference for yourself?
We look forward to welcoming you at You Spa in Canggu and Gili Trawangan for a moment of pure relaxation and well-being!

Written By Alexandrine
For The You Spa Team