Is your daily life very stressful? Do you need to relax? If you answered yes to these questions, you need a massage! Read here about some things that make or break a good massage experience.
One simple way to give a massage is to use a “raking” technique. This is done by spreading your fingers and using your fingertips. Start in the shoulder area then move your fingers in a raking motion down the back. Make sure the fingers move along the spine not on top of the spine. While one hand moves up move the other one down in alternating motion.
When giving a massage, it is very important that you use oil or lotion. Massage oils can increase the movements of the soft tissue. Using oil will minimize the pinching and tugging feel on the skin. Massage oils come in all different varieties. They include aromatherapy and provide lubrication and nutrients.
A massage can be enhanced by the right scent. Try to keep scents mild and natural, rather than strong and over powering. Fruity and floral smells are good, but make sure don’t create any medicinal smells. These types of scents will help to melt the stress away and bring a feeling of rejuvenation.
If you have recently contracted the flu, a massage may help alleviate the pain and stiffness generally associated with the flu. For the best relief, gently rub warmed lotion over your entire body using a circular motion. This will not only alleviate aches, but it will also help re-hydrate your skin.
If you’re pregnant, you can still enjoy a massage if it is given by a license therapist. This is a great way to deal with morning sickness, stress, back pain, sore breasts and swollen ankles. You can continue it after birth to deal with postpartum depression, weight loss and baby-carrying pains, too.
When you have a client that you are giving a massage to, ask whether or not they are comfortable. The last thing that you will want is someone who does not feel secure when you are giving a massage. Additionally, they will be very tight and tough to massage if they are anxious.
If you are getting a full body massage, always ask to take a shower or at least wash your feet prior to beginning the massage. You can hold a lot of dirt and bacteria on places like your feet and hands, and you do not want your massage therapist massaging those areas first and then placing their hands on your face for further massage.
When giving a massage to someone, you need to be careful about the amount of pressure you are putting in them. Applying too much pressure could cause damage to their nerves, joints and muscles. Also, you should be massaging toward the heart, as applying the wrong way could cause damage to veins.
Consider getting a massage in either just your underwear or naked. Skin to skin contact is important during any massage, and this can only be accomplished if you remove your clothes. You can always use a blanket to cover up if you are concerned about modesty or staying warm during the process.
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.
Eat some food about 30 minutes prior to a massage, but don’t eat too much! You don’t want to feel bloated for the experience. You want just enough food that you feel relaxed. If you go in hungry, you’ll be that much more stressed for the entire time period of the massage.
If you are very invested in working out, try massaging your muscles prior to your regimen and also afterwards. Before you work out, get your blood racing by using your fists on your arms and legs. After exercising, rub the muscles with your fist or palm towards the heart.
Drink plenty of water before and after your massage. Drinking before your massage session ensures that your muscles are well-hydrated and supple, making the massage more effective. Water after your massage will flush out the toxins that were released and can even help prevent soreness by hastening muscle recovery time.
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 money is tight, you are still able to get a massage. A massage therapy school in your area is the perfect place to get a massage. During this time, you will be able to get a massage at a discounted rate.
If you feel dizzy or odd in any way, make sure that you sit down and take a breather. Sometimes, the amount of blood flow and circulation after a massage is much higher than usual, which could cause your mind to blackout for a second. Take your time and relax until you feel like you are back to normal.
Try not to look at massage therapy as a one and done thing, especially if you have chronic pain. Massaging has a lot of great benefits over the long haul, through multiple sessions. Schedule a few of them over the course of the month and evaluate the results after several sessions and not just one.
Like this article told you before, you should get a massage if you want to relax. If you follow the tips here, you should be able to find a nice massage easily. When you are searching for a place for massages, remember what you have learned here, and enjoy your time.
