The ancient art of massage hasn’t withstood the test of time coincidentally or without good reason; it’s of great benefit to your health! Learn more about what they can do for you, how to find the right masseuse and even how to give someone you know in pain a great massage. The following article will tell you more.
Regulate your breathing during a massage. It is not uncommon to feel apprehension or anxiety during a massage, particularly if you are new to receiving them. Remember that you are in a safe environment and dealing with a professional. You will not be able to relax if your breathing is not normal.
The raking method is a popular way to give a back massage. Spread your fingers out wide and use your fingertips to perform a raking motion down the back, from shoulders to hips. You can increase the pressure to the recipient’s liking. This is a simple way to relax your significant other and spend some quality time together.
If you are getting a massage and the spa doesn’t give you a foot bath before the massage, give yourself one. You must make sure the germs that are on your feet don’t contaminate the rest of your body. You can just wash your feet in the bathroom sink if necessary.
Swedish massage therapy is the most frequently offered type available. Some people consider this to just be a basic massage. The strokes are long and smooth, done in a kneading motion, typically in circles. The masseuse will normally use oil during the process. It is not too rigorous and quite enjoyable.
Before you give a massage, stretch all of the areas that you are planning to use. This means that you will need to stretch your fingers, arms, neck, back and legs so that you can reduce cramps during your massage and get all areas involved. If you are providing a long massage session, stretching is imperative.
If you just don’t know much about massages, start with a simple Swedish massage. You can also go with a deep tissue massage as well. There are many alternative treatments available, some which can leave you disappointed if you are expecting a more traditional massage. Your essential needs will be taken care of by these as you learn of the rest.
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.
Did you know you have great self-massage tools around the house? Why not lie on a tennis ball for a sore spot on your back? A rolling pin is great for the bottom of your feet. Walk around your house and you may be surprised by all the great tools you find!
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.
If you’ve given someone a massage using oil, let them shower afterwards if they want to. This will help remove the excess oil as well as soothing their body. This is vital for the skin too, as it keeps pores from clogging and blemishes from developing.
You can massage your eyes to make your headaches go away. If you have tired eyes, you should rub your hands together until your palms get warm. Place your warm hands over your eyes and let your palms warm up your eyes. The warmth will relax the muscles located in your eyes.
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.
It’s a good idea to stretch and give yourself a neck massage every hour or so when working for a long time at your computer. Interlace your fingers behind your head, and then push the palm of your hand down one side of your neck. Massage this area up and down at a slow pace. Next, use your opposing hand to massage around the base of your skull. Perform the motions three times before switching sides. Lastly, stretch the head backwards, to let the neck press into the top of your chair. Remain in this position for about 20 seconds.
Try using a body rock or a bamboo tool so you can apply pressure more efficiently. Holding one of these objects in your hand will give you more strength, but you can also apply the object directly on the tense muscle. Make sure you use some oil or another kind of lubricant.
If your work requires you to be standing all day, your feet can feel very sore when you go home. Gently massage them; it will start the flow of blood again. This is something that you can do right at home. Also, use a lotion that will help with the friction and level of lubrication.
There are quite a few different techniques that you should try. If your masseuse only gives deep tissue rubs, look for some other clinics around you to find different types.
The massage has been around for centuries because it’s such a good thing for the body and mind. Hopefully this article has convinced you to go out and get one or learn how to give one. They can really help you heal, cope and relax. Pick up the phone and make yourself an appointment!
