Massage has the long-standing reputation of providing many benefits, in both the physiological and psychological sense. However, many people aren’t aware of just how much a massage can improve their life. Keep on reading to better understand the different ways a proper massage helps someone feel much better both mentally and physically.
When you go to get a massage, make sure you are open-minded about the whole process. If you have never gone before, you may not understand all of the methods involved. However, don’t let this stop you from enjoying your massage! Stay relaxed and give the professional a chance to continue with the massage.
Make sure the person you give a massage to is comfortably installed. Ideally, you should use a massage table or at least a comfortable mat. If you do not have this equipment, have the person lay down on a comfortable couch or a supportive mattress. Make sure their head is properly supported.
Ease your aching feet! Your feet are under pressure all day long and are often ignored when it comes to a healing massage. Massage your toes, gently stretching them out until they feel relaxed. Use your thumbs to put pressure on the sole of your foot, slowly moving from the toes to the heel. For feet that are particularly achy you can apply more pressure by kneading the sole with your knuckles. Finally, treat your tired feet with a rich moisturizer.
You should consider getting a good massage therapist who makes house or office calls. A lot of people that do massages save some money because they don’t need office space and can travel around to different places. This also makes it easier on you, as it is more convenient and often time costs less as well.
Select a massage therapist who has great online reviews. You want to know how others feel about their level of service before you subject yourself to a possibly painful massage. Look for independent, unbiased reviews that are not located on the therapist’s website.
Swedish massage therapy is the most frequently offered type available. Some people consider this to just be a basic massage. The strokes are long and smooth, done in a kneading motion, typically in circles. The masseuse will normally use oil during the process. It is not too rigorous and quite enjoyable.
When you get a massage, request that the lights be dimmed. To enjoy a relaxing massage, a darker room can help provide a great atmosphere. The room does not have to be completely dark, but it should be no brighter than it would be if the light was provided by candles.
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.
Pay attention to how your partner responds during a massage. If your partner tenses up, you are probably massaging him or her in a way that is too intense. If your partner seems to feel tickled, you might be going too light with your fingers. Paying attention can help you to find the right balance that will really please your partner.
If you have a spot which hurts frequently, give it a massage once per day. This will help loosen it up and hopefully your pain will not return. Over time, you may find that it is already loose when you start to rub it, so you can reduce the frequency of massage.
If you are pregnant and getting a massage, avoid massage tables which have holes in them. This will ensure yours and the baby’s comfort and prevent the stress to your lower back. Also, make sure you use plenty of pillows as additional padding in order to feel more comfortable and secure.
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.
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.
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.
If you notice that you are having a lot of pain in your head, opt for craniosacral therapy. This massage technique focuses primarily on the skull and down the middle of your back with minor pressure that relieves tension and helps trauma. This is a good massage to have if you are older and find yourself sore more often.
Don’t forget to tip your masseuse. Masseuses are considered service workers and make a living in part from gratuities. A normal tip is between 15 and 20 percent if you’re greatly satisfied with the service.
Massage all areas of your body including your hands, especially when you moisturize. This can be done by rubbing your hands together in a circular pattern. Then, focus on your thumbs, using one to massage the other. Finish by massage each finger and wrist.
Massages are known for relaxing and rejuvenating the mind and body. The benefits and techniques associated with massage are vast, and should be studied thoroughly. With a little luck, the article you’ve just read has served as an excellent starting point.
