Getting a massage can be a fun experience, whether it is from your significant other or at a professional salon. There are some things that you should keep in mind for a great experience. The following article can help you learn all there is to know about massages and giving you a successful time!
If you decide to get a massage in the comfort of your own home, take a hot shower first. The hot water will help relax your muscles through the penetrating heat. This will ensure that your massage is more comfortable and any aches or pains are eliminated before the start.
It is always advisable to go to a massage session on an empty stomach. After you eat, you can feel bloated and a little uncomfortable. Therefore, make sure you don’t eat less than an hour before your massage so that your food can completely digest. This will make your massage much more enjoyable no matter what position you sit in.
Massage is great during pregnancy, but wait until after the first trimester. During the first trimester, your baby is in the earliest stages of development. Toxins released during a massage can harm the fetus or inhibit growth during this delicate period. Once you have reached 16 weeks, you should be all clear to enjoy a massage.
Make use of scented candles whenever giving a massage. This can be very beneficial as it will not only provide light in the room if you want to create a calm atmosphere, but will also bring aroma therapy into the mix. When you add this thoughtful touch to your skilled massage, you are creating an excellent relaxation experience.
A foot massage can be used for more than tired, achy feet. You can search online and find foot maps that show which area of the foot can be massaged to experience relief from a myriad of symptoms throughout your body. For example, pressing on the big toe is known to relieve sinus pain and pressure.
One of the best things that you can do before and after your massage is to drink a lot of water. Water will help to eliminate some of the free radicals that are in your body, which may be causing your discomfort in the first place. This will optimize your overall experience.
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!
Do not underestimate the relaxing properties of a neck massage. A lot of people feel tense around their necks. It is also easy to massage to massage this area, giving you maximum benefits. You should always use an oil or lotion when giving massages.
When your massage therapist tells you to drink water, listen! It is easy to become dehydrated quickly after a massage because toxins and fluids are released from your body. Drinking lots of water will help to replenish the fluids you are losing. If you choose to drink caffeine filled sodas or alcohol instead, you will suffer the consequences.
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.
When you give a massage, try to ensure that your hands follow the body’s contours closely. Work your palms and fingers equally along the surface. Bony areas should be rubbed using your palm and with soft pressure to avoid pain. When the area you are working becomes slightly more curved, utilize the tips of your fingers for precision.
Aromatherapy massage uses scented therapeutic massage oils along with gentle kneading motions. These scented oils add another dimension to the standard massage by incorporating the sense of smell into the massage therapy. Aromatherapy often uses lavender, eucalyptus and chamomile. This type of massage is perfect for people suffering for stress related pain.
Shiatsu massage is used by gently applying firm pressure into affected meridians then quickly releasing it. This type of massage is perfect for those suffering from tired muscles that need immediate relief. Unlike other types of massage, this massage does not leave the person feeling sore afterwards; instead, they feel refreshed and renewed.
Background music is a relaxing addition to a massage. This music can help to soothe and relax the individual receiving your massage. That relieves tension in sore muscles. As your hands skillfully loosen up the muscles, this will make your massage more effective.
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.
When you begin a massage, always warm the lotion or oil with your hands prior to applying. Gently spread the oil or lotion over the skin and let it set for a minute or two before beginning the massage. Make sure that you use enough so that once the massage starts, you are not having to reapply constantly.
As you have just read, there are many ways that a massage can give you a healthier mind and body. Just by applying the simple tips from the above article, you can ensure that your next massage will be a great one. Never settle for an okay massage, settle for an epic one.
