Most people relieve stress by getting a massage. However, everyone does not know how to give a good massage. A bit of knowledge goes a long way. The article below can show you how.
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.
Every massage patient is unique. Figure out what the person needs and try to give them that. If you notice a positive response to a particular area, stay in that specific area longer. Stay aware of body signals and solicit feedback.
One simple way to give a massage is to use a “raking” technique. This is done by spreading your fingers and using your fingertips. Start in the shoulder area then move your fingers in a raking motion down the back. Make sure the fingers move along the spine not on top of the spine. While one hand moves up move the other one down in alternating motion.
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.
Before massaging someone, experiment and provide options for using different oil types. This is crucial because oil has different effects on people, so you will need to find the one that is right. Oil is important because it can lubricate the skin so you can massage even better.
After you give a massage to someone, make sure that they take a warm bath. This will help to further the effect of the massage and soothe the muscles even more. After this person takes the bath, they will feel more refreshed and looser then they ever had in their entire life.
Make sure that your massage therapist is registered in your state. If your massage therapist is not properly registered and insured, then you are at risk of being left to fend for yourself if they were to cause injury to you during their work. Do not worry about being rude, ask for proof so that you can be confident that you are in responsible hands.
A popular back massage you can try out on someone is called a “Raking Massage”. With this technique, you spread your fingers apart and use your tips to give the massage. Begin in the shoulder area and work your way down the back using a raking motion. Then, you move your fingers down the spine without actually touching it. Move one hand down as the other hand moves up.
Make sure that the lights are very low to improve the atmosphere during the massage. A darker space will help you relax, and that’s the whole point of you being there! The room need not be totally dark, but the lighting should be similar to that provided by candles.
A method called trigger-therapy, or neuromuscular therapy, works by applying pressure to certain targeted points. Trigger points are irritated areas of muscle that feel like knots or lumps. Left untreated, these knots can lead to pain in around the area. Pressure applied to these areas cause the muscles to relax so the pain is relieved.
When massaging someone, open your fingers up so that you can be more precise with the area that you massage. This helps to loosen up the muscles and is also a great technique if you are planning on giving a deep tissue massage. After you massage this way, close your hands back up and use your palms.
Make your massage faster as you’re getting deeper into one. Starting slow allows the recipient to get familiar with your touch. After a time, you can move faster and apply more pressure.
If you suffer from medical conditions such as high blood pressure or are pregnant, speak up before getting your massage. In most cases, a massage will still be safe, but the technique will probably need to be adjusted. A professional massage therapist can help you get the relaxation you are seeking while remaining safe if you are willing to speak up.
Be on time for your massage appointment. The day may be about relaxation, but the timing is still important. Also, you may lose your appointment if you are not on time.
You do not have to remove your clothing for a massage. Many people feel uncomfortable being completely undressed, so don’t be afraid to keep some clothing on if it makes you more relaxed. Your masseuse will not be offended. The goal of a massage is to relax, so stressing about clothing is counter-productive.
Rub the oil between your hands to warm it up before applying it to the skin. Remember that a massage is supposed to be relaxing, and cold oil poured on the back is the antithesis of this. Instead, put the oil in your hands and rub them together for a few minutes. Friction will provide the heat needed for the oil to reach a good temperature.
As you’ve read, giving great massages isn’t that hard. You can help your family members and friends with stress when you learn the tips presented here. Why not become a professional? Being able to give a good massage is a very useful skill to possess.
