Is it time for a massage? It doesn’t matter if you’re the recipient or the masseuse, you need to understand the art of massage fully for the best experience. This article will give you a ton of helpful hints to ensure that your next massage is the best ever given.
Always be gentle when giving someone else a message. Even if the person you are massaging complains, you should avoid applying too much pressure to their muscles and joints. Unless you have been trained in message therapy, you are more likely to hurt them than to relieve their pain by being more forceful.
If your baby is having a difficult time sleeping, give massage a try. Massage is relaxing and easy for any parent to do. Just rest the baby on your lap and rub the back, arms, legs and neck gently. You can even use a little oil to make the massage more enjoyable.
Be sure to read the cues of the person you are massaging. Pay close attention to facial expression and muscle tension. If you practice for a time, you’ll eventually be able to use your hand to read the body. If the person feels tense, you are applying too much pressure.
You can make massages even better by using some massaging oils. There are plenty of different essential oils to choose from. Choose an oil with an enjoyable smell and you will find that massages are even more relaxing thanks to the smell of the essential oils and the properties of the oil you chose.
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.
Don’t doubt the power of a massage. Getting a great massage is an excellent way to eliminate pain, ease stress, and gain more energy to get through your hectic lifestyle. In spite of whatever health issues you are affected by, you should consider a professional massage for help.
Schedule your massages smartly. If you usually get sleepy after a massage, you should avoid getting one before you have to go to work. However, if massages help you get some energy, do not hesitate to schedule a massage before you have to go through a stressful day at work.
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!
When your massage is complete, rest for a few minutes. You have just spent a half hour to an hour lying face down and relaxing while being massaged. You may experience a mild sense of being light-headed when you stand, so be careful that you don’t lose your balance.
Speak up about potential medical issues. If you suffer from an illness that could be aggravated by a massage or if you are pregnant, say something. Your masseuse will be able to adjust their technique to give you a great massage that works around your ailment and keeps you safe.
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.
A great massage technique for reliving shoulder pressure is providing yourself with a bear hug. To do this, put the right hand on the left shoulder and the left hand on the right shoulder. Tightly press on each shoulder and release. Do this three times. Finally, begin to work your hands down your arms squeezing and then letting go until you get to your wrists.
Prenatal massage can be terrific for expectant mothers. This can help increase the blood flow that goes to your baby, and can relax you. Regular prenatal massages reduce stress, increase your circulation, and keep your muscles relaxed and limber.
Remember to breathe deeply when receiving a massage. You want to bring oxygen to every part of your body to enhance the healing effects of the massaging action. Breathe in and out of your nose to create a meditative type state, and make sure to breathe deep into your abdomen.
A proper environment is essential to a successful therapeutic back massage at home. The ideal location is in a quiet, warm and relaxed environment. If you’re not doing the massage in an area like that, the person you’re massaging may not be able to relax or reap all of the benefits of a therapeutic massage.
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.
Use movements that are smooth and consistent. Your hands should never feel jerky or harsh to your massage partner. While oil can help your hands to glide over the flesh, you still need to practice gentle techniques that target specific muscle groups. Ask your partner for feedback to ensure that you are helping.
Are you ready to conquer that next massage? Are you going to take this advice to heart? If you do, you’ll find that every massage from now on is truly an exceptional experience. That means everyone will be happier, healthier and loving the art of massage all over again, too!
