If you have never gotten a massage, you probably think it is a rather simple process of someone merely rubbing your body. However, the process is much more complicated than you would think, due to all the numerous styles there are. Continue reading to learn more about massages and how they can benefit you.
When you are giving your massage, try to have music playing in the room. This music should be very soothing and calm, without many words. Music therapy can help soothe the muscles so that you can maximize the overall experience and help your overall technique during the massage that you give.
Massaging stretch marks can help make them fade over time. If you massage these areas with cocoa butter each day, you can get those stretch marks to go away. Massaging the area stimulates tissue regeneration, lessening the appearance of stretch marks.
Make sure your massage therapists know any areas of discomfort you have before beginning the massage. If there is any particular area that is giving your pain, the therapist can focus on that and try to give you some relief. She can also be careful to avoid any areas that are especially sensitive.
Lubrication is important when giving a massage. The best lubricants will allow your hands to glide across the body. Oils work well as do many lotions. Try out a few different kinds and see which works best. You want a lotion that will not require reapplication causing breaks during the massage.
The speed of your hands is important for the kind of massage you are trying to give. If you are looking for a massage to relax your partner, go for slow strokes. If you are looking to work out tired muscles that have been over exerted, faster strokes work better.
Don’t write off massages as not helpful. Getting a massage is one way to eliminate pain, reduce stress, and boost energy daily. 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.
Avoid holding your breath while your massage therapist is working. You may have knots that are extremely painful, yet the therapist cannot massage them out effectively if you hold your breath. Try to breathe through the muscle pain, and use a combination of deep breathing and visualization. In your mind, picture the area and imagine the knot is a lump of butter, melting in the warm sunshine.
After receiving a great deep tissue massage, remember to drink a lot of water. Deep tissue massages release toxins from the muscles, and water helps to clear those toxins from your body. By drinking several glasses, you will keep your body hydrated and avoid feeling lethargic after your massage.
Where do you rub when doing a self-massage? Start with the spot that hurts. Find the areas that are painful and slowly move your hands outward around these areas. Sometimes you will notice other spots emerging, so focus on those as well. When it stops feeling good, then you can stop the massage, if you wish to.
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 enjoy working out, you should try massaging your muscles before and after exercising. You should pummel your muscles with your fists to improve your circulation before working out and massage your muscles more gently after working out to speed up the recovery process. Make sure you stretch after massaging.
Do not be late if you make an appointment for a massage. You can’t relax if you’re late. Your therapist has other appointments to attend to, so be on time.
Do not forget to tip your massage therapist. Many therapists work mostly for tips and only receive a small percentage of the price you pay for the massage. They will appreciate a good tip, and it will be remembered the next time you return. A fair tip is typically fifteen to twenty percent.
When you are stumped for what to give as a Christmas or birthday present, consider buying a coupon for a healthy massage! Everybody loves the soothing and relaxing benefits of a deep tissue massage and who couldn’t use the extra pampering? Especially for the person who has everything, the gift of massage is perfect!
You need to know all your options before you go for a massage. For example, there are different techniques that your masseuse can use on you such as deep tissue, rolling, tapping and kneading. These techniques have different effects on your muscles, which is why it is important to have an idea of what you should expect.
Consider a hot shower after a massage. A hot shower can further relax your muscles, and it gives you an opportunity to stand still and enjoy all the benefits of the massage. The hot water is also very relaxing, lending to the stress free atmosphere you have probably hoped to create.
If you are thinking about finding a massage therapist, ask your doctor for a recommendation. Often, your doctor will be able to refer you to an excellent professional from their years of experience in dealing with health problems. You might also ask a trainer at your gym to refer you to an excellent massage therapist.
You are now aware of just how complex the process of a massage can be. It involves much more than a person just rubbing you. There are all kinds of methods and techniques that can be utilized, which can all very beneficial for your body. With this new knowledge, go and get the best massage of your life.