The broad subject of massage is something in which many people are truly interested. The best way to really become an expert on the topic of massage, however, is to avail yourself of the very best information on the concept, its methods of practice and the benefits it can provide. The article that follows provides a terrific place to begin.
If you decide to get a massage in the comfort of your own home, take a hot shower first. The hot water will help relax your muscles through the penetrating heat. This will ensure that your massage is more comfortable and any aches or pains are eliminated before the start.
Massages are a great way to reduce stress and relive pain. If you have chronic back aches or have other stress related issues, you should regularly have a massage. Find a relative or friend who can massage you or visit a professional masseuse.
Make the most of your massage by drinking lots of water. Why? Because a good massage gets your circulation going, but water is needed to flush toxins out of your body. Hydrating before your massage makes your blood less sluggish, making it easier for the masseuse to rub excess lactic acid out of your muscles. Staying hydrated after aids your body in processing and eliminating these toxins.
Make sure the person you give a massage to is comfortably installed. Ideally, you should use a massage table or at least a comfortable mat. If you do not have this equipment, have the person lay down on a comfortable couch or a supportive mattress. Make sure their head is properly supported.
If you will be getting a massage to have some stress relieved, go with an aromatherapy massage. Along with a massage, the therapist will use essential oils on your capillaries in order to relax the body. Most of these oils come from flowers, roots, and herbs and are completely safe.
Don’t underestimate the power of a massage. Getting yourself a massage can ease a lot of pain, rid you of stress and can also give you some energy. If you find any of these things to be a problem for you, you should definitely try getting a massage so that you can see the benefits on your own.
If you tend to have a lot of tension in your muscles, but you don’t like a rigorous massage, hot stone massage might be your best choice. The stones, which are smooth, are made warm and then placed onto specific areas of the body. This warms the muscles and tissues, releasing tension and pent-up energy.
Use candles to set the mood. Candles provide subtle lighting, while simultaneously creating a relaxing atmosphere. Scented candles are also a great idea. Place them evenly throughout the room, at varying elevations. It is also important to be safe when using candles. Keep them away from hanging fabric such as curtains.
Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor about massages. If you deal with back pains or muscle pains on a regular basis, ask your doctor if massages would be a good solution. Your doctor should be able to recommend a good massage clinic in your area and even write you a prescription.
Athletes know about a sports massage. Anyone else who likes to exercise, but isn’t a pro, can use it to their advantage, too. Do not expect a sports massage to make your stress disappear; this technique will prevent your muscles from getting injured and will improve your circulation.
This may be something you already know, but make sure you tip your massage therapist generously. It is not only the kind thing to do, but also earns the respect of your therapist if you plan on returning. Always show up on time for your massage because it not only shows you are serious, but you won’t cut into someone else’s massage time.
How much should you tip a masseuse? If you’re at a hotel or a local spa, 20% is pretty standard. If they work from home, each therapist will typically set their own policies, but 20% is fair. If they work in a massage clinic, ask them for their rules – some will include the tip in the price.
If you have dry hands or feet, find a good moisturizer and use it for massages. Apply a small dose of moisturizer on your dry skin and take the time to massage the area. Massaging allows the moisturizer to penetrate the skin to its deeper layers, which means you will get better results.
Be prompt when getting your massage. Just because massage has to do with relaxation does not mean that you can be lackadaisical about the timing. Massage therapists often have appointments all day long that they need to fulfill, so respect their time as you would any other professional.
If your shoulders are bothering you, you should try hugging yourself and massaging the muscles you can reach while hugging yourself. This exercise will also help you stretch your entire back. You should try this technique if you have to sit on a chair during most of your work day.
When you are finished eating, rub your tummy! There is no mistake about it. When you do this correctly, you help promote healthy digestion. Do this by placing your palms on top of your abdomen as you gently rub it clockwise. This will help your digestion by guiding your food along the way through your intestines.
There can be little debate that a proper massage is something that just about everyone can appreciate. However, not everyone possesses a great deal of knowledge on the subject. By reading the article above and referring to the information as needed, you should have what it takes to become a true massage expert and aficionado.
