Want to give and receive better massages? Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be difficult to achieve. Reading this article will teach you everything you need to know to give someone the best massage of their life. Start right away!
Consider massaging your body prior to exercising and immediately afterwards too. Massaging prior to working out helps raise blood flow into all of your muscles. And after a workout, a quick massage helps your muscles recover a lot quicker. It’s definitely worth the extra five minutes before and after exercise!
If you cannot find anyone to give you a massage, you should try using massage tools such as head massagers or canes designed to massage your back. These tools are not as efficient as receiving a massage from a professional but they are a good solution if you cannot afford to go get a massage on a daily basis.
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.
The Japanese love to engage in a form of massage called shiatsu. This uses the pressure from the masseuse’s fingers pressed in a rhythm on your acupuncture meridians. The pressure is applied for a few to many seconds, boosting energy flow and returning the body to balance. It doesn’t leave you sore, either!
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.
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 different techniques but Swedish and deep tissue massages are the best treatments if you have tense muscles. These messages will cover most basic needs until you can learn more about other types.
There are a few secrets to giving a fantastic massage and they involve things you don’t do. Always be careful to not pull their hair. Body hair is included in this. Be careful of pressure on their bones. Learn to be gentle when you need to be and hard when required.
Let your masseuse know of your music preferences. Many people enjoy relaxing music playing during their massage, however some do not. If you prefer a quiet environment while you get your massage, speak up. You can also specify a particular type of music or even request ambient noise such as bird songs or ocean waves.
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.
Make sure you speak up if your massage is too hard or too soft for your liking. This is a service that you are paying quite a bit for, so if your masseuse is applying too much or too little pressure, let them know so they can adjust their pressure accordingly.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you have to spend a lot of money to get a good massage. Meanwhile, it is human nature to choose well known spas, a smaller center or a massage school can offer the same services. Sometimes lesser known places offer better massages than their more expensive counterparts, for half the price.
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.
Many of us have old injuries from playing sports, accidents, or just normal wear and tear on our bodies. If this is the case with you, it is very important that you let your masseuse know about any injuries you’ve sustained or areas of your body that are particularly sensitive.
It is important to drink water after each massage you have. Because a massage gets toxins out of the body, water can help flush them out. Avoid drinking anything other than water after a massage. Water helps to both keep you refreshed and clean your body from the inside out.
Massage your hands when you put lotion on. Start with your palms and rub them in a circular motion. Then, massage the meaty portion between your thumb and index finger. When you finish, take your pointer fingers and thumbs and work with your wrists and other fingers.
Massaging can help healing just as much as drugs. Different conditions can be alleviated with a simple massage once a week. Massage can be much healthier than pain-relieving medications.
Many people believe that massage therapists only focus on your back, but this is not the truth. When you are considering getting a massage, ask the person you speak with about the different types that are available. They may cost more, but more of your body will end up being relaxed.
You need to use the tips you’ve been given for your next massage. Keep searching for more strategies and techniques to build up your talents. Now get out there and try out the new skills that you have just learned.