If massage is done properly, it is a most enjoyable experience. Thus, the givers need to be good at it, and the receivers ought to be good at finding those that are skilled at it. Read on to learn everything you can about the benefits of massages.
If you have been feeling particularly stressed out, it just might be time to have a relaxing massage. Massages are not only helpful to relax you mentally but physically as well. It helps to promote circulation and loosens up your muscles. Let go of some of your stress with a massage.
It is ideal to have massages multiple times a week. Oftentimes, massages on a regular basis helps a person’s overall mental and physical health. This occurs because a massage helps to decrease stress in your life. Where possible, try to arrange for a massage twice a week.
Stretch before you go to get a message. This will help to loosen you up just a little bit before hand so that your massage therapist can quickly locate any problem areas that you might have. If you have extreme pain you may not want to do this, otherwise it is a good idea.
An easy way to give a relaxing massage is by using a technique called “raking”. In it, you just run your fingertips (spread hands) down the person’s back, gently moving back and forth. Really, you’re doing a raking motion up and down. For added effect, try alternating your hands – one rakes up while the other rakes down.
After you give a massage to someone, make sure that they take a warm bath. This will help to further the effect of the massage and soothe the muscles even more. After this person takes the bath, they will feel more refreshed and looser then they ever had in their entire life.
Consult with your masseuse before the massage. Knowing what will happen during the session will help you to relax. This is also an opportunity for you to discuss any allergies or concerns you may have with products used during the massage. Ask for music if you like, or anything else that will increase your comfort level.
When you are giving a massage, try to have the person you are massaging in as few articles of clothing as possible. If they are uncomfortable, they can wear a towel to feel more secure at all times. Having areas of the body exposed is not only soothing, but it also facilitates your job.
When you get a massage, always inquire directly if they plan to dim the lights. You want to have a relaxing and enjoyable massage, and room that’s dark will provide that sort of atmosphere. Candlelight is your best bet.
If you are a woman, don’t swear off men massage therapists. Since most women are modest, they often feel uncomfortable in front of a male massage therapist. However, some women have reported that the best massage they have gotten in a long time is from a male massage therapist. Whatever your decision, don’t just base it on the sex of the massage therapist.
What should one use for a self-massage? Whatever you can use! If you’re massaging a knot out of your thigh, why not use your elbow? Is your neck sore? Fingers will do, but you can also buy a massaging neck roller. Try out different items and body parts and see what works for you.
You can give yourself a hand massage by using a pencil with an eraser. Use the pencil eraser to press into the fleshy areas of your hand, paying particular attention to the thumb pad. Move the eraser in a circular motion around your hand maximizing the pressure if it is necessary.
Do not be afraid to try new massage techniques when visiting the spa. Some spas offer massages where hot stones are used, others couple massages with a chocolate wrap or seaweed. These techniques can enhance the entire experience, benefiting your muscles, skin and psyche. Consider them if you are looking for a real pampering experience.
Massaging your own shoulders can be enjoyable if you do it right. Beginning at the top of your spine, using one hand or two, use your hand to stroke from skull to shoulders. Then work your way across the shoulder outwards. Go back towards the neck and repeat the process.
Ankle rotations are a great technique to help your feet relax and your joints loosen a little. With one hand beneath your heel, grab your foot’s ball with your other hand. Then, rotate 3 times in each direction.
Combine massage techniques if you have an injury and need major therapy. Seeing a chiropractor or getting acupuncture are good therapy examples. Such activities are great in conjunction with one another, since they tackle problems of muscles, nerves and bones alike. Healing will be sped up, too.
One of the biggest mistakes that you can make when giving your partner a massage is to have the room too cold. Your goal should be to make your partner feel as comfortable as possible. This is very hard to achieve if they are shivering from the cold air on their body.
If you often experience back pain, you should consider investing in a vibrating massaging pad. Some pads even have an option that allows you to apply heat to your muscles. Compare different products before you purchase on and choose one with different speeds so you can easily adjust it in function of your needs.
With the information of all these tips, you should be able to give a proper massage. No matter if you are receiving or giving the massage, you will feel good about it. Make sure you are continually refining your massaging skills and keeping up to date with all new techniques being released.
