If you’ve always want to give and get massages, but know little about the subject, fret not. There are definitely a lot of things to be learned, but they are all within your reach. The article below has the information that you need to make informed decisions about the art of massage.
One great massage technique that you can do for your partner is called raking. Raking means that you spread your hands out, and using your fingertips, you rake up one side of the back right by the spine while you rake downward on the other side with your other hand.
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.
Some good choices as massage oil include almond oil, walnut oil and olive oil. All have healing properties. Oil works much better than lotion for a massage and you will require far less of it. Oil lubricates skin and hands to facilitate a smooth touch.
If you will be getting a massage to have some stress relieved, go with an aromatherapy massage. Along with a massage, the therapist will use essential oils on your capillaries in order to relax the body. Most of these oils come from flowers, roots, and herbs and are completely safe.
If it’s your first time getting a massage or you’re unsure of which one to get, choose a treatment for deep tissue or Swedish massage. Other therapies may not prove as beneficial. These two particular techniques are a good place to start and will help you get initiated into the world of massage.
Ask your therapist about referral programs. You may be able to save quite a bit of money by referring your friends. This is especially useful if you are on a tight budget or need massages often in order to feel well.
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.
When you are giving a massage, the atmosphere you provide will do wonders for your partner. Try using soft music in the background to relax your partner. Diffuser oils and candles will relax your partners senses and make them feel at ease. Also using low or soft lighting will help your partner relax and get into the mood for a great massage.
Massage therapy is an effective way to relieve the pain associated with arthritis and other joint problems. This is especially true if you get a massage regularly. It can really help those muscles and joints! It also reduces stress and increases circulation.
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.
If you want to put some spark back into your relationship, consider giving your partner a romantic massage. They are more intimate than a standard massage and can really relax your partner for some couple focused bonding time. It will enhance your relationship through touch and make your partner feel special.
Many children that have been diagnosed with Autism really enjoy the feeling a deep pressure in different areas of their body such as the chin or legs. When your child is upset you can help them calm down by giving them that deep pressure that they are craving by giving them a massage.
Massages should be relaxing, with the movements being methodical and slow in the areas of the body that need it. While complex techniques can appear cooler, the point of massage is to slow down the body and to relax muscles. Smooth, strategic strokes on the back area will accomplish this.
If you are uncomfortable with the whole idea of massage therapy, go with a friend to the spa. This will make you feel much more comfortable, as you are with someone you know and not alone. You can even go into the massage room or sign up for a duel massage with this person.
If you suffer from anxiety, ask your doctor if regular massage therapy might help. This treatment has been used for centuries to ease the body and relax the mind. If only for an hour a week, you should be able to escape from the pressure, stress and discomfort that anxiety causes you.
Do not pour the oil from the bottle onto your client’s body. Oil poured from the bottle is cold to the touch. Warm the oil in your hands before rubbing it onto the person. Your partner will find it much more enjoyable. A massage needs to be a soothing experience, and cold oil can jolt a person.
One way to massage yourself or someone else is with your fists. Just gently punch on your legs or arms, going from the tips of your digits to your torso. This is a great way to relax your body and mind before going to sleep or invigorating yourself for the day ahead.
As you can now see, there are a lot of interesting variables that go into giving and getting great massages. Apply what you’ve learned here, and you will be an expert on the subject in no time. Going forward, enjoy the wonderful world of massage and what it can do for you.