Massage has long been something that millions of people have enjoyed and millions more have wanted to learn more about. Given the voluminous information available on the topic, it can be difficult to sort the good material from the bad. Fortunately, by reading the article that follows, you can gain a proper understanding of some of the most important elements of massage.
Make the most of your massage by drinking lots of water. Why? Because a good massage gets your circulation going, but water is needed to flush toxins out of your body. Hydrating before your massage makes your blood less sluggish, making it easier for the masseuse to rub excess lactic acid out of your muscles. Staying hydrated after aids your body in processing and eliminating these toxins.
If you have problems with tension headaches and medication is not doing the trick, consider massage. Massage helps to relax the body, and it can target specific pressure points that offer benefits. Enjoying a massage once a week might be all you need to get rid of your headaches and keep them away.
If you’re getting a full body massage, make sure the masseuse uses a massage oil. These oils are a must if they plan on digging deep into your ligaments and muscles without causing discomfort. These oils make their hands slippery, which helps reduce friction and lowers the chances of getting skin burns.
Make sure your feet are clean prior to your massage; a foot bath can help with this. You don’t want germs that are on your feet mixing with the other parts on your body. If you cannot give yourself a foot bath where you are, see if you can go to the restroom and wash your feet in the sink.
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.
If your child is suffering from colic, a gentle massage may alleviate some of their suffering. Slightly warm some lavender baby lotion and gently massage your infants back, legs, hands and feet. This will help relax your child making them less fussy if they are suffering from stomach cramps caused by colic.
Slow movements during a massage are more soothing. When you apply pressure with thumb or finger, make sure you avoid wearing out your thumbs by providing support with the other thumb and fingers. Take advantage of your body weight as well to fend off fatigue.
When you decide to start having massages, try to develop a comfortable rapport with your massage therapist. When you are comfortable with your masseuse, you are better able to relax, and the massage will be a positive experience. Have a talk with the masseuse first to be sure you are comfortable.
If you just don’t know much about massages, start with a simple Swedish massage. You can also go with a deep tissue massage as well. A bunch of different styles are available to you today. These two options provided cover your needs until you find out more about other kinds.
How much should you tip a masseuse? If you’re at a hotel or a local spa, 20% is pretty standard. If they work from home, each therapist will typically set their own policies, but 20% is fair. If they work in a massage clinic, ask them for their rules – some will include the tip in the price.
Emphasize any medical conditions that you may have before the massage. This is especially important if you are carrying a child at the time. You can have a massage tailored to your specific needs if you provide this information in advance. If you don’t let your massage therapist know of your situation, you could worsen your aches.
Extend the benefits of your massage by taking things easy for the rest of the day. Allow your mind and body to stay in the relaxed zone by practicing deep breathing throughout the day whenever you feel the tension returning. Plan a low-key, relaxing dinner followed by a warm bath, then get into bed early and curl up for a nice, restorative night of sleep
Make sure to warm up your oil prior to putting it onto the skin. Putting cold oil on your skin is not as relaxing as warm oil. This just isn’t a good start for your massage. Pour a few drops of oil in the palm of your hands so you can warm the oil by rubbing. That friction will heat up the oil.
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.
You should get a massage before and after working out. Before you exercise, pump with your fists to get the circulation moving along your arms and legs. After exercising, rub the muscles with your fist or palm towards the heart.
The art of massage is a complex topic, but also one of great interest to many. The key to acquiring a good understanding of what massage has the capacity to do for countless individuals is getting your hands on the right information. The article above should serve as a useful reference as you continue your quest for greater understanding of the subject of massage.
