If you have always wanted to give great massages, you may be surprised to hear that it isn’t difficult. You can go to a school that offers massage therapy training, or you can learn from this article about how to give great massages. Get going!
Use a warm oil when giving someone a massage. The oil will make it easier for your to move your hands across the other person’s skin and the warmth of the oil will be soothing for the person who is receiving the message. Be careful, however, to not overheat the oil, as you can cause burns.
Try to limit all background noise when you are giving your massage, as the environment should be as quiet and calm as possible at all times. You will want the person you are massaging to relax their muscles so that your massage technique will work, as a quiet atmosphere helps to facilitate this.
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.
A massage should involve slow, comforting movements. If you use your thumbs or fingers to apply pressure, try not to wear them out, and provide support using the other fingers and thumb. It is important to apply your weight to avoid becoming tired.
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.
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.
When your feet are aching after a long day, consider having some reflexology. This therapy uses pressure on specific areas of the foot which are connected to your organs, just like in acupuncture. It causes not only your feet to feel amazing, but also helps balance your systems and gives you a great deal of relaxation.
Recover slowly after enjoying a massage. Hold off on immediately jumping up from the table as soon as the masseuse leaves the room. Take a moment to luxuriate in the warm, relaxed feel of your body. Open your eyes, take in your surroundings, and then slowly sit up on the edge of the table. Rest a moment before standing.
Sit for a while after the massage. Your body needs time to adjust after receiving a massage. Getting up too quickly can shock your body. You may feel faint or a little nauseous. Relax for a few minutes before you get back to your daily activities.
Avoid eating before a massage. You want at least 90 minutes between your last meal and your massage. However, more time is better. Allow your body to digest its meal so you can fully relax and get all the benefits of your massage. As a bonus you will be spared embarrassing stomach gurgling noises during your session.
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.
If you have a less than pleasant experience having a massage, try not to write them off completely. Everyone has their own style and techniques and no two massage therapists are the same. Ask for a recommendation from a friend for someone new, and explain your experience to them so they can do their best to make your massage with them as pleasant as possible.
Massaging is a great way to relieve pain and stress but keep in mind that a massage might not be your best option if your joints or articulations are bothering you. You should go to a chiropractor for some adjustments instead of massaging or trying to adjust your joints yourself.
If you are older and suffering with the pain and discomfort of arthritis or other age-related ailments, look into professional massages for relief. Frequent massages can make a huge difference in your pain levels. They are great for boosting circulation and eliminating stress.
Make sure you aren’t holding your breath during your massage session. Pressure massage is important to work out the kinks and pains in your muscles. The stored up pension cannot be eliminated if you are holding your breath the whole time. If you are feeling nervous, try some deep and slow breathing exercises before starting your session.
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.
When you’re near a sink, grab some soothing lotion and give your hands a little massage of their own. The hands and palms are often overlooked during the massage process. Once a week is enough to feel a big improvement in the flexibility of your fingers and reduces the development of arthritis.
Set the mood for a nice massage. The hands working on the back are wonderful, but you can go even further and create an environment that is made for relaxation and peace. Put on some soft music and light some candles. This can be a wonderful way to treat the rest of your body to relaxation as well as the parts being massaged.
Before you give your next massage, make a plan to institute these tips. Keep learning in order to improve your technique and skills. Show off your new-found skills and amaze those around you.
