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This is the first post in an eight-part series on the chakras for men who want practical, grounded self-care. We start at the foundation: the root chakra, or Muladhara. Later posts move upward through sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye and crown — then a wrap-up that ties them together. <h2>What is the Root Chakra?</h2><figure id="figure-mu7g6jvls1mw5ekuav"><img id="mu7g6jvls1mw5ekuav" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/288PmKw5QvnFC7c0jWIQ3MgzbLpDIrRZ2E14zgxCmpkXTxiJU3mZvRfLIEH0h9E9.jpg" alt="Snowy mountain peaks rising above a sea of clouds at sunrise, a symbol of grounding" title="Snowy mountain peaks rising above a sea of clouds at sunrise, a symbol of grounding" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/288PmKw5QvnFC7c0jWIQ3MgzbLpDIrRZ2E14zgxCmpkXTxiJU3mZvRfLIEH0h9E9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h2> </h2> In traditional yogic systems, Muladhara is the first of seven main energy centers. The name points to “root support.” It is linked with the base of the spine, the pelvic floor, the legs and the feet — the parts of you that meet the ground. People often connect it with the element of earth and the color red. Symbolically it is about safety, belonging, basic needs, and the quiet sense that you have a place to stand. When this center feels steady, routines hold, the body rests more easily, and decisions come with less panic. This language comes from traditional practice and holistic wellness. It is a map many men find useful for noticing body and mind together — not a medical diagnosis. <h2>Where the root shows up in the body</h2><figure id="figure-0qydipe79omw5ene1o"><img id="0qydipe79omw5ene1o" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1f3LVjATQZShWfNrIZbFbTHGPhOoq5YyY3lFEZSw0qp2jS0XGTw5sqIYnwd3kHHk.jpg" alt="Man doing a grounding floor exercise on a yoga mat in a bright loft studio" title="Man doing a grounding floor exercise on a yoga mat in a bright loft studio" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1f3LVjATQZShWfNrIZbFbTHGPhOoq5YyY3lFEZSw0qp2jS0XGTw5sqIYnwd3kHHk.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h2> </h2> You do not need to “believe” in chakras to notice how safety and stress live in the body. When the nervous system stays on alert, muscles brace. When you feel supported, breath deepens and posture softens. Around the root that often looks like tight calves, a pelvis that will not soften, feet that feel numb from never really planting, or a lower back that stays armored. In bodywork, working the feet, legs and lower back is not only about muscles — it can help the whole system remember what grounded feels like. <h2>Signs it may feel blocked</h2> These are common wellness observations, not clinical symptoms. You might notice:• Restlessness or a hard time sitting still• Money or housing worry that never settles• Feeling disconnected from your body or from home• Cold feet or heavy legs• A sense that you are “floating” through the day without a base A supported root often feels like: I can stand here. I can take the next step. My body is allowed to settle. <h2>Three simple ways to balance it</h2><figure id="figure-1kfu4ywp25mw5enyc7"><img id="1kfu4ywp25mw5enyc7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38fXr4p19rou0d57tta0yvVGxltPh6sIn0WcvpEghMn0ahAA4MqEk4AEjSNJdz3H.jpg" alt="Bearded man meditating cross-legged on the floor with eyes closed" title="Bearded man meditating cross-legged on the floor with eyes closed" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38fXr4p19rou0d57tta0yvVGxltPh6sIn0WcvpEghMn0ahAA4MqEk4AEjSNJdz3H.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h2> </h2> 1. Breath that lands you. Sit or stand with both feet on the floor. Soften the knees. Place one hand on the lower belly. Inhale through the nose for four counts, exhale for six. Repeat for three to five minutes. If the mind races, name three things you can feel through your feet. 2. Movement that reconnects you to the ground. Slow walks without headphones. Standing forward folds with soft knees. Squats where you feel your heels. You are not chasing a workout high — you are teaching the body that the ground is still there. 3. Bodywork and self-care. Attention to feet, calves, hamstrings, glutes and lower back releases armor many men carry without noticing. Even five minutes of self-massage on the soles with a firm ball helps.<figure id="figure-euhro46j8mw5eoi3n"><img id="euhro46j8mw5eoi3n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16UyfqvxX11WadeiolAulTMhUwCCX6aWyxFXh16USt2izThNzzGWlht0Rhi81ILD.jpg" alt="Man relaxing face down during a calming back massage" title="Man relaxing face down during a calming back massage" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16UyfqvxX11WadeiolAulTMhUwCCX6aWyxFXh16USt2izThNzzGWlht0Rhi81ILD.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>For guided support, online Reiki, Kundalini Activation or Lingam guided practice can combine breath and quiet attention so the nervous system has permission to downshift. <h2>Key takeaway</h2><figure id="figure-ok2jvmz0drmw5hh1fi" data-full-width=""><img id="ok2jvmz0drmw5hh1fi" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37J5sKXb4oQJP8AhSLQVKS31xAErQT8G1fpIgDvJwYsGskxD5rmx3vmVqwJAnX9T.png" alt="Two-minute grounding practice: stand barefoot, soften your knees and take six slow breaths" title="Two-minute grounding practice: stand barefoot, soften your knees and take six slow breaths" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37J5sKXb4oQJP8AhSLQVKS31xAErQT8G1fpIgDvJwYsGskxD5rmx3vmVqwJAnX9T.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure> <blockquote>A few minutes of breath and grounded movement most days is enough. Add a session when your body asks for a deeper reset. Balance is not perfection — it is the felt sense that you have a place to stand.Add an <a href="/reiki" data-mce-href="../reiki">online Reiki session</a> when your body asks for a deeper reset.</blockquote> <h2>Next in the series</h2> Next up is the Sacral chakra — creativity, emotion and flow — building on the stability we start here.<figure id="figure-fpzz36jhnmw5hk10a" data-full-width=""><img id="fpzz36jhnmw5hk10a" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1o7wkLM0rTpVbDUYjSJKFrAMoL4ClIDpK0cUlmcLfakOaVFunZnagsAF2AyVQ1ex.png" alt="Chakra Series for Men: Root chakra, post 1, and Sacral chakra coming soon" title="Chakra Series for Men: Root chakra, post 1, and Sacral chakra coming soon" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1o7wkLM0rTpVbDUYjSJKFrAMoL4ClIDpK0cUlmcLfakOaVFunZnagsAF2AyVQ1ex.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure> <h2>Related posts</h2><h2> </h2><figure id="figure-6aw0xifjaimw5hl7ny" data-full-width=""><img id="6aw0xifjaimw5hl7ny" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fNIyjJKfqvVjJ4uqKYRm0qIwHGJlE2f8UBoBW0dPwPxpn1I8jZe0Gn7TksMPxlu.png" alt="Related posts: Manipura chakra, Chakras and Reiki, and Why Relaxing Massage" title="Related posts: Manipura chakra, Chakras and Reiki, and Why Relaxing Massage" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fNIyjJKfqvVjJ4uqKYRm0qIwHGJlE2f8UBoBW0dPwPxpn1I8jZe0Gn7TksMPxlu.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h2> </h2><a data-mce-href="../blog/ignite-your-inner-fire--a-guide-to-the-manipura-chakra" href="../blog/ignite-your-inner-fire--a-guide-to-the-manipura-chakra">Ignite Your Inner Fire: A Guide to the Manipura Chakra</a><a data-mce-href="../blog/balancing-your-energy--understanding-chakras-and-reiki" href="../blog/balancing-your-energy--understanding-chakras-and-reiki">Balancing Your Energy: Understanding Chakras and Reiki</a><a data-mce-href="../blog/why-relaxing-massage" href="../blog/why-relaxing-massage">Why Relaxing Massage?</a> <figure id="figure-d3g08jankumw5idvxh" data-full-width=""><img id="d3g08jankumw5idvxh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1Wm3v90WFrXQ0VzQqYJzwYCdgS1hldppwDEDb7yzrHM6xycfRZkfGNVXH0mrtRa2.png" alt="J MAC Botanicals fractionated coconut oil, my pick on Amazon for massage" title="J MAC Botanicals fractionated coconut oil, my pick on Amazon for massage" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1Wm3v90WFrXQ0VzQqYJzwYCdgS1hldppwDEDb7yzrHM6xycfRZkfGNVXH0mrtRa2.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21">View J MAC Botanicals Fractionated Coconut Oil on Amazon →</a>As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. <figure id="figure-3qnzkfprwtmw5ihcpn" data-full-width=""><img id="3qnzkfprwtmw5ihcpn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2ayYLxGsteMTRSM4l69VOwQWzdFjyFKXfrSxWcGDL0LFfAP6JYjFh5s2zVlJF1wP.png" alt="Book an online session with Frederico de Deus" title="Book an online session with Frederico de Deus" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2ayYLxGsteMTRSM4l69VOwQWzdFjyFKXfrSxWcGDL0LFfAP6JYjFh5s2zVlJF1wP.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><a href="/bookyoursession" data-mce-href="../bookyoursession">BOOK ONLINE</a>

Root Chakra Meaning, Signs of Blockage, and How to Balance It

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21" data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21">Check the current price on Amazon →</a>As a certified masseur, Reiki practitioner and personal trainer here in NYC, I go through a lot of oil. Over the years I've tried many brands, and only a few stay in my bag.&nbsp;J MAC Botanicals Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil (16 oz) is one of them. I've bought it more than 10 times, and in this review I'll share why I keep coming back, what I like, what could be better and how to use it at home.<h2>What Is Fractionated Coconut Oil?</h2><figure id="figure-wu1i45x5smw5hoel0" data-full-width=""><img id="wu1i45x5smw5hoel0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/cSSeFAQX05qVGIv4CFsWOLmClrxEqIfn9uEHFh58wn5476iC0ErhHmSU9liq8obG.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/cSSeFAQX05qVGIv4CFsWOLmClrxEqIfn9uEHFh58wn5476iC0ErhHmSU9liq8obG.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Regular coconut oil turns solid at cooler temperatures. Fractionated coconut oil has been processed so it&nbsp;stays liquid, which makes it much easier to pour, spread and blend. It has no scent and is often used as a&nbsp;carrier oil, the base you mix essential oils into.According to its Amazon listing, the J MAC Botanicals version is:<ul><li>Organic fractionated coconut oil</li><li>Sold in a&nbsp;16 fl oz bottle</li><li>Marketed as a&nbsp;carrier oil for diluting essential oils, a&nbsp;leave-in conditioner for dry hair, and for&nbsp;skin and massage</li></ul>At the time I checked the listing, it carried an "Amazon's Choice" badge and a strong customer rating. Ratings and badges change, so check the current details on the product page.<h2>Why I Use It for Massage</h2><figure id="figure-m7j5b1k5bmw5hqfl2" data-full-width=""><img id="m7j5b1k5bmw5hqfl2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30bMEsuCOoeJxYl97yhM8iIondduhcnjDxFMjPJ0HRrSLtTLhVgaDctFx68FaCv4.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30bMEsuCOoeJxYl97yhM8iIondduhcnjDxFMjPJ0HRrSLtTLhVgaDctFx68FaCv4.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> In a session, the oil matters more than most people think. It decides how smoothly my hands glide, how long I can work on one area, and how my client feels when they get dressed afterwards. Here's what I've found after many bottles:<h3>Medium Weight on the Body</h3>This is the main reason I love it. It isn't so thin that it disappears after a few strokes, and it isn't so heavy that it feels greasy. That&nbsp;medium weight gives me enough glide for long, flowing strokes, and enough control for slower, deeper work on the back, shoulders and legs.<h3>It Absorbs Into the Skin Well</h3>By the end of a session, the oil has largely&nbsp;absorbed into the skin, leaving it feeling soft and nourished rather than slick.<h3>It Washes Off Easily</h3>Nobody wants to leave a massage feeling like they need two showers. This oil&nbsp;washes off easily, from skin and in my experience from towels and sheets too, which makes life easier for me and for my clients.<h3>Easy to Customize</h3>Because it's a carrier oil with no scent, I can add a few drops of essential oil to match the session: something calming for a relaxing massage, or something fresher after a workout. If you prefer no scent at all, it works perfectly on its own.<h2>Pros and Cons</h2>Pros<ul><li>Medium weight: good glide without feeling heavy or greasy</li><li>Absorbs into the skin well, leaving it soft</li><li>Washes off easily</li><li>Stays liquid, so it's easy to pour and use</li><li>Works as a carrier for essential oils</li><li>Versatile: massage, skin and hair, per the listing</li><li>Organic, per the listing</li><li>16 oz is a generous size for home use</li></ul>Cons<ul><li>If you like a very slippery oil for long sessions, you may need to reapply more often than with heavier oils</li><li>People with a coconut allergy or sensitivity should avoid it</li><li>A pump is optional: some Amazon listings come with one and some don't, so check before you order</li></ul><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21" data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21">See J MAC Botanicals Fractionated Coconut Oil on Amazon →</a><h2>Who Is It For?</h2><ul><li>Couples and friends who want to give each other a relaxing massage at home</li><li>Massage therapists and bodyworkers looking for a reliable everyday oil</li><li>Active people and gym-goers who like a self-massage after training. As a personal trainer, I recommend a few minutes of self-massage on calves, quads and shoulders on rest days.</li><li>Anyone who blends essential oils and needs a neutral carrier</li><li>Self-care lovers who want a simple, multi-use oil for dry skin or hair ends</li></ul>It's probably&nbsp;not the best choice if you're allergic to coconut, or if you prefer a thick, rich oil or balm.<h2>How to Use It for Massage at Home</h2><ol><li>Set the space. Dim the lights, put on calm music and keep a towel nearby. In my Reiki practice, I always start with a few slow breaths, and it works at home too.</li><li>Warm the oil. Pour a small amount, about a teaspoon, into your palms and rub them together. Never pour cold oil directly onto the skin.</li><li>Start light. Use long, gentle strokes to spread the oil and help the body relax.</li><li>Add more as needed. A little goes a long way. Add small amounts rather than a lot at once.</li><li>Blend if you like. For an aromatic massage, mix a few drops of a skin-safe essential oil into the carrier oil, following the essential oil's dilution guidelines.</li><li>Finish with care. Let the remaining oil absorb into the skin, or wipe off any excess with a warm towel. Drink some water and enjoy the calm.</li></ol>Self-massage tip: after a workout, apply a little oil to your calves or forearms and use slow strokes toward the heart, followed by a gentle stretch.<h2>FAQ</h2>Does fractionated coconut oil solidify? No. Unlike regular coconut oil, fractionated coconut oil stays liquid.Does it smell like coconut? No, and I love that. It has no scent, so it works on its own or with a few drops of essential oil.Will it stain sheets? It comes out easily with regular detergent, so towels and sheets stay clean.Can I use it on my face or hair? The listing mentions skin and use as a leave-in conditioner for dry hair. Do a patch test first, especially on the face.How much should I use? Start with about a teaspoon for one area and add more only if you need it.<h2>My Final Verdict</h2>After more than 10 bottles, J MAC Botanicals Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil is still one of my favorites. Its medium weight gives me the glide and control I need, it absorbs well, and it washes off easily. It's simple, versatile and reliable, and that's exactly what I want from a massage oil, whether in professional massage work or relaxing at home.<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21" data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21">Check the current price on Amazon →</a>Curious about working with me? In-person sessions are paused for now, and online sessions are available for Reiki, Kundalini Activation and Lingam guided practice.&nbsp;<a href="/bookyoursession" data-mce-href="../bookyoursession">Reach out to ask about sessions</a>.With care,&nbsp;Frederico de DeusCertified masseur, Reiki practitioner and personal trainerThis post is for general wellness information and is not medical advice. Always do a patch test on a small area of skin before using a new oil, and stop if irritation occurs. If you have allergies, skin conditions or health concerns, talk to your doctor first.<figure id="figure-2tud5v0xbtmw5hr9xe" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="2tud5v0xbtmw5hr9xe" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1acdbgE1IKxEfoG1gNCgiwG9PYWe7vaGAynyeWkQGq0nkdMujWtzbLZH2LtKxza2.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1acdbgE1IKxEfoG1gNCgiwG9PYWe7vaGAynyeWkQGq0nkdMujWtzbLZH2LtKxza2.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21">View J MAC Botanicals Fractionated Coconut Oil on Amazon →</a>As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.<figure id="figure-d2ewmu1ol7mw5htkwv" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="d2ewmu1ol7mw5htkwv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dcl9id14NPXz7HatNX05F0ATQjulip3cxYyeQY5sdalNVpBJc3OAEmjWKqBHEmfT.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dcl9id14NPXz7HatNX05F0ATQjulip3cxYyeQY5sdalNVpBJc3OAEmjWKqBHEmfT.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="../blog/sports-massage-after-workout" href="../blog/sports-massage-after-workout">Read: Sports Massage After a Workout →</a><figure id="figure-9m5i9313gmw5hw7x7" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="9m5i9313gmw5hw7x7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11w8YN52hiVu0LscuwJK6zxItygsTR7AHZA7JgAxZu4VV8B8HM1suvfd60VIR1sG.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11w8YN52hiVu0LscuwJK6zxItygsTR7AHZA7JgAxZu4VV8B8HM1suvfd60VIR1sG.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="../blog/why-relaxing-massage" href="../blog/why-relaxing-massage">Read: Why Relaxing Massage? →</a><figure id="figure-qfyt2lni7umw5hxiqb" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="qfyt2lni7umw5hxiqb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11xWhZ8WfUzpP6fRMgjZ3zuX408LndC0PcTohTAea3qggDeukHMePS432niMZnr0.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11xWhZ8WfUzpP6fRMgjZ3zuX408LndC0PcTohTAea3qggDeukHMePS432niMZnr0.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="../bookyoursession" href="../bookyoursession" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">BOOK ONLINE →</a>

J MAC Botanicals Fractionated Coconut Oil Review: A Masseur's Pick

You finished a hard leg day, a long run along the Hudson or your first week back at the gym. The next morning, the stairs at the subway station feel twice as tall. Sore, tight muscles are a normal part of training, and many people ask the same question:&nbsp;should I get a massage after a workout?As a certified masseur and personal trainer in NYC, I've seen both sides of this, on the gym floor and on the massage table. In this guide I'll share what sports massage is, how it can support your recovery and when to book one.<h2>What Is a Sports Massage?</h2><figure id="figure-fpht0e19omw5i22tn" data-full-width=""><img id="fpht0e19omw5i22tn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32X0LIZ9dS3lVQsWAxDPMcUYs3sNCO8lJkbmrLQs6D1JDkPCKCkKKxp0n38DKC4Q.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32X0LIZ9dS3lVQsWAxDPMcUYs3sNCO8lJkbmrLQs6D1JDkPCKCkKKxp0n38DKC4Q.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>A sports massage is a focused, purposeful massage designed for people who move their bodies regularly. You don't need to be a professional athlete. If you lift, run, cycle, dance, do yoga or simply walk all over the city, your muscles work hard, and they can benefit from attentive care.Compared with a classic relaxing massage, a sports massage usually:<ul><li>Targets the areas you train most, such as legs, glutes, back, shoulders or hips.</li><li>Combines different techniques, including long gliding strokes, kneading, compression, gentle stretching and slower, deeper pressure where the tissue feels tight.</li><li>Adapts to your training cycle, lighter close to an event or a heavy session, deeper on a rest day.</li></ul>It is not about pain. Good bodywork works&nbsp;with your body, never against it.<h2>Benefits of a Massage After a Workout</h2><figure id="figure-ctm88k66umw5i2w2g" data-full-width=""><img id="ctm88k66umw5i2w2g" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2209Qmz5JQLNCjWjlJYeZuuk3RKnp8PHWD1rjSl9cJZSMdmqVsT9uFcuhTaEP0Ka.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2209Qmz5JQLNCjWjlJYeZuuk3RKnp8PHWD1rjSl9cJZSMdmqVsT9uFcuhTaEP0Ka.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Research on massage and recovery is still growing, but many people report clear benefits, and studies suggest massage may help reduce the feeling of muscle soreness after exercise. Here is what my clients most often notice:<h3>1. Less Tightness and Soreness</h3>Delayed onset muscle soreness (the "DOMS" you feel one or two days after training) is common. Massage can help muscles feel looser and lighter, so moving the next day feels easier.<h3>2. Better Range of Motion</h3>Tight hips, hamstrings and shoulders limit how you move in the gym. Combining massage with gentle assisted stretching can help you feel more mobile, which makes squats, presses and even sitting at your desk more comfortable.<h3>3. A Calmer Nervous System</h3>Training is a positive stress, but it is still stress. A slow, attentive massage invites your body into rest mode. Many people find they feel calmer and rest more easily after a massage, and good sleep is one of the most powerful recovery tools you have.<h3>4. More Body Awareness</h3>On the table you start to notice where you hold tension: a tight left shoulder, a hip that works harder than the other. As a personal trainer, I find this awareness helps people train smarter and move with better balance.<h3>5. Time Just for You</h3>In a city that never stops, an hour where your phone is away and someone takes care of you matters. Self-care is part of training, not a reward you earn later.<h2>When Is the Best Time to Get a Massage After Working Out?</h2><figure id="figure-bco1vcbdi8mw5i3kcd" data-full-width=""><img id="bco1vcbdi8mw5i3kcd" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bW5NZhv2fSoZLdL3jQ4EdbwekcS5XnwrOEO8vLuaZEqJfcYeCa7EEe9spxeiBU4.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bW5NZhv2fSoZLdL3jQ4EdbwekcS5XnwrOEO8vLuaZEqJfcYeCa7EEe9spxeiBU4.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Timing makes a real difference. Here is the simple guide I share with my clients:<ul><li>Right after an intense session (0–2 hours): keep it light. Your muscles are already working hard to recover, so gentle, flowing strokes are best. Drink water and eat first.</li><li>24–72 hours after a hard workout: this is often the sweet spot. Soreness peaks around this window, and a moderate to deeper massage can help you feel looser.</li><li>On a rest day: ideal for deeper, more focused work, because you won't be loading those muscles again a few hours later.</li><li>Before a race or big event: choose a short, lighter massage a few days before. Avoid trying deep work for the first time right before an event.</li></ul><h2>How Often Should You Get a Sports Massage?</h2>It depends on how you train and how your body responds:<ul><li>Training 2–3 times a week: a session once or twice a month is a great rhythm.</li><li>Training 4–6 times a week or preparing for an event: every one to two weeks can help you stay on top of tightness.</li><li>Occasional exercisers: book whenever you feel stiff, or after a period of extra-intense training.</li></ul>Consistency beats intensity. Regular, moderate sessions usually feel better than one very deep session every six months.<h2>Sports Massage vs. Deep Tissue vs. Relaxing Massage</h2>People often confuse these styles, so here is a quick comparison:<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Style </td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Main focus </td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Pressure </td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Best for </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Sports massage</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Areas you train, mobility, recovery</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Light to firm, adapted to timing</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Active people, gym-goers, runners</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Deep tissue massage</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Long-held tension in deeper layers</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Firm and slow</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Chronic tightness, desk posture</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Relaxing (Swedish-style) massage</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Overall relaxation and stress relief</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Light to medium</td><td style="width: 25%;" data-mce-style="width: 25%;">Rest, unwinding, first-time clients</td></tr></tbody></table>In my massage work I've often blended them. If you want to go further into deeper techniques, read my post on <a href="/blog/the-key-elements-of-a-deep-tissue-massage" data-mce-href="../blog/the-key-elements-of-a-deep-tissue-massage">the key elements of a deep tissue massage</a> or why <a href="/blog/why-relaxing-massage" data-mce-href="../blog/why-relaxing-massage">a relaxing massage</a> is just as valuable.<h2>What to Expect From a Good Sports Massage</h2>A good sports massage starts with a short conversation: how you train, where you feel tight and whether you have any injuries or health conditions. From there, a skilled therapist will:<ol><li>Set a goal with you: recovery, mobility, relaxation or a mix.</li><li>Adapt the pressure and check in often. You are always in control, and you can ask for lighter or firmer pressure at any time.</li><li>Add gentle stretching where it helps, focusing on the muscles your training actually uses.</li><li>Share simple aftercare tips: water, light movement, a stretch or two, and when to train again.</li></ol><h2>Simple Recovery Tips Between Sessions</h2>Massage works best as part of a routine. Between sessions, try:<ul><li>Hydrate and eat enough protein to support your muscles.</li><li>Sleep 7–9 hours whenever you can.</li><li>Move gently on rest days: walking, easy cycling or mobility work.</li><li>Use a foam roller or massage ball for a few minutes on tight spots.</li><li>Breathe: five slow breaths before bed can help your body shift into rest.</li></ul><h2>FAQ</h2>Is it good to get a massage right after a workout? A light massage right after training can feel great. For deeper work, wait 24–72 hours or book on a rest day.Should a sports massage hurt? No. You may feel strong pressure on tight areas, but it should never feel like sharp pain. Tell your therapist and they will adjust.Can I work out after a massage? Light movement is fine. After a deeper session, give your body until the next day before heavy training.Do I need to be an athlete to book a sports massage? Not at all. If you exercise, walk a lot or have an active job, a sports massage can help you feel and move better.What should I do after my session? Drink water, move gently, and notice how your body feels over the next day or two.<h2>Ask About Sessions</h2>Your training deserves recovery that is just as intentional. In-person sessions are paused for now, and online sessions are available for Reiki, Kundalini Activation and Lingam guided practice. If you'd like support with relaxation, breath and energy work alongside your training,&nbsp;<a href="/bookyoursession" data-mce-href="../bookyoursession">reach out to ask about sessions</a>.— Frederico de Deus, Brazilian certified masseur, Reiki facilitator and personal trainer&nbsp;This article is for general wellness information only and is not medical advice. If you have an injury, pain or a health condition, please talk to your doctor before getting a massage.<figure id="figure-aikbhbgudmmw5i58eo" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="aikbhbgudmmw5i58eo" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11wYTbrNbVBLUz7vRXLhcgfhmEXGbNJAZvxcImDHR9d0xlwmpSuxfFhYkuklrpya.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11wYTbrNbVBLUz7vRXLhcgfhmEXGbNJAZvxcImDHR9d0xlwmpSuxfFhYkuklrpya.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSHW2RT?tag=fredericdedeu-21">View J MAC Botanicals Fractionated Coconut Oil on Amazon →</a>As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.<figure id="figure-2t9iniyq3mw5i78rx" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="2t9iniyq3mw5i78rx" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32LFwLSDH4Loi7G14JyXO1t4XUJlrA0kwmHTH7m8sCH9IcdtlcNfIebcKlFiXkoY.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32LFwLSDH4Loi7G14JyXO1t4XUJlrA0kwmHTH7m8sCH9IcdtlcNfIebcKlFiXkoY.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="../blog/jmac-botanicals-fractionated-coconut-oil-review" href="../blog/jmac-botanicals-fractionated-coconut-oil-review">Read: J MAC Fractionated Coconut Oil Review →</a><figure id="figure-48fe6h6tymw5i83so" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="48fe6h6tymw5i83so" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20lAYmpgp2uNoWKVtohzobxN2kbfiS3KEFyFrU1W5k5yQp4OQEfFvNw4GwmaGRrZ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20lAYmpgp2uNoWKVtohzobxN2kbfiS3KEFyFrU1W5k5yQp4OQEfFvNw4GwmaGRrZ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><a data-mce-href="../bookyoursession" href="../bookyoursession" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">BOOK ONLINE →</a>

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