If you’ve been wondering how to improve your massage skills, it isn’t all that hard. Whether you are a professional or just want to learn for fun, this article will give you some great techniques you can use. It is now time to get started today!
One great massage technique that you can do for your partner is called raking. Raking means that you spread your hands out, and using your fingertips, you rake up one side of the back right by the spine while you rake downward on the other side with your other hand.
If you can, get a massage once or twice a week. Massages not only help your body to feel relaxed, they can also give you a nice overall sense of well-being. This is more than likely attributed to the simple fact that massages are natural stress reducers by helping relax your mind and body. If you can, shoot for getting a massage at least two times per week.
Keep the room at a good temperature throughout the entire massage. If you are giving a massage during the winter, try to have the heat on so that things are not uncomfortable. On the other hand, if it is very hot outside, keep the air conditioning on at a reasonable level.
When giving a massage, make sure that you use the right amount of pressure. It is a delicate balance between using too much pressure and not enough. Take some time to practice. Ask the person you are giving the massage to if you are using too much or too little. Their feedback should dictate the amount of pressure you use.
If you have a difficult time riding in the car for a long period of time, consider purchasing a massaging cushion for your back. These cushions often plug right into your lighter, and they can provide a comfortable massage in various intensities while you drive. This can make the ride more enjoyable for anyone.
Asian massages are known to help relax the body. One not-so-common, but very relaxing Asian massage is called the Indonesian-Javanese massage. With this method, the therapist will use both their hands and knuckles to get so deep into the skin. This will help your muscles relax if they were tense.
When receiving a massage, always ask that they dim the lights. You want the entire experience to be enjoyable and relaxing, and dimming the lights will give you that mood. The room doesn’t need to be pitch black, but it shouldn’t be brighter than candle light.
You can actually give a foot massage to yourself using a well-known trick by athletes. Roll your feet on top of a tennis or golf ball. Just move sideways and back and forth. Concentrate on the arches since they’re more sensitive.
If massage is new to you, stick to a Swedish massage or some sort of basic deep tissue massage. There are many alternative treatments available, some which can leave you disappointed if you are expecting a more traditional massage. These two cover both ends of the spectrum in massage therapy.
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.
Be on time, or a little early. Besides being good etiquette, being punctual can actually help your massage be effective. When you are running late, you are usually in a frenzied state, increasing stress levels and putting your body on edge. In a massage, this means it will take you longer to unwind and you may not get all of the benefits of a relaxing rub down.
Look for a minty cream to use during a massage. Mint not only soothes skin, it also has a fresh and relaxing scent, perfect for a massage. Go out your way to find superior products that give your skin needed moisture and nutrients.
Do you have a cold? You can relieve sinus pressure by massaging your face gently. Massage your forehead and temples and apply gentle pressure around your nose and eyes. Repeat this process throughout the day until the pressure is gone. This technique is useful to relieve headaches and stress too.
When you decide to get a massage, make sure that you are relaxing your thoughts. It can be easy to feel nervous, especially if it’s your first time. Most professional spas usually have relaxing music playing. If you hear the music, channel your thoughts into paying attention to the individual notes. This can help you relax in your tense moments.
Why do you want to have a massage? Did you become injured? Do you have nagging back pain? Or are you simply looking for a good way to relax? Tell your therapist your motivation so they can work with it.
The patient isn’t made of glass, so don’t be afraid to close your fists or use your elbows to thump along the body’s outline. This small exertion of force at the beginning of a massage helps waken the nerves and loosen the tired muscles. Apply a gentle amount of force and follow along the shoulders, ribcage, and lower neck for maximum efficiency.
If you have not gone to have a massage because you believe that it is too expensive, it’s really not. Prices of massages can be quite expensive, but there are many places that give great massages for an affordable price. Schools that have massage therapy programs also often offer deeply discounted massages preformed by the students.
Now you have some helpful tips when it comes to massage. Continue to learn and always be on the lookout for new opportunities to educate yourself. Now is the time to make magic with your hands.
