Have you been thinking about giving massage to someone special but, are uncertain of how to do it? Do you want to learn more about the proper movements and supplies? If so, you are at the right place! This article contains several hints and tips to help you perform a great massage.
If you have been feeling particularly stressed out, it just might be time to have a relaxing massage. Massages are not only helpful to relax you mentally but physically as well. It helps to promote circulation and loosens up your muscles. Let go of some of your stress with a massage.
Change your mindset about massage. Instead of thinking of it as a luxury, think of massage as a therapeutic approach to health. Research shows that massage can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as lessening asthma symptoms in children. Additionally, those tension headaches are no match for the hands of a skilled massage therapist.
When giving a massage, be sure to use your thumbs. They are strong, and can be great for muscle stimulation. Make sure not to push excessively, since that is often not liked by the person getting the massage.
Avoid eating right before you have a massage session. It is easy to feel bloated or uncomfortable after eating, which can make lying down for a full massage session difficult. Digest all of your food and have a light snack before the massage. This will maximize your comfort level so you can focus on the actual massage.
If you have a difficult time riding in the car for a long period of time, consider purchasing a massaging cushion for your back. These cushions often plug right into your lighter, and they can provide a comfortable massage in various intensities while you drive. This can make the ride more enjoyable for anyone.
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.
If you have a favorite fragrance of massage oil, bring it to your next massage. More than likely, the therapist will be willing to use it. Sometimes they may have a preference for oils of a certain type, but it is definitely worth asking to see if they are willing to use your favorite.
When you go for a massage, tell the therapist about your trouble spots. A massage is for relaxing your muscles where they are the most tense. Your therapist is probably not a mind reader, so always let them know before starting the massage where you need the most help.
If you tend to get sick often, there is something you can do. There is proof that massages help with producing blood cells, specifically white ones, in the body. This is good to know because these cells can make your body more able to fight off things like viruses so that you’re not getting sick as much.
The power of a relaxing neck massage should not be underestimated. The neck tends to hold onto tension. This area just happens to be one of the easier ones to massage. Apply lotion to both hands during a neck massage, and try to include the muscles in the shoulders also.
Don’t be intimidated about speaking up when you get a massage. If you have a particular area that you would like to be worked on, tell your massage therapist. If your massage therapist is not focusing on the areas that need attention, you’ll never get pain relief; so remember to always speak up!
Have the person you are massaging lie on a flat surface while on their stomach. This is the most beneficial position when you are giving a massage, as it allows their back muscles to stay loose while there is nothing pressing against it. You will want their position to be loose and free at all times.
Do not neglect the hands and feet when you massage someone. A good hand and/or foot massage can be remarkably relaxing and rejuvenating. Be firm when massaging the feet and hands, as the muscles are tough.
Never smoke or drink before you get a massage. Engaging in these acts not only puts your health at risk, but will cause you to be more anxious and tense during your massage. Also, the effects of these actions will reduce your feeling and sensitivity to the massage, which are two factors that you want when you get one.
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.
When giving a massage to your dog, it is important you choose an area in your house that is free of distractions and noise. This can make it easier for your dog to relax. Make sure you provide a comfortable area for the dog to be massaged. This can be on a bed, sofa or soft towel.
As promised at the beginning, you have now learned some fabulous ways to give a massage. Incorporate these tricks into your next massage experience. The person receiving it will be pleased at how effective your massages have become. Then, you can share your newly discovered skills with other people in your family.
