Massage therapy is one of the best things you can do for your mind, body and soul. When done properly, a massage can renew the way that you feel in just minutes. Below, you will find a guide to use to find the best massage that will alleviate many of the discomforts you have.
If you suffer from back pain, especially in your lower back, having regular massages could be very beneficial. Having a professional relax your muscles can really work wonders and prevent you from further back injuries. It can also help with back spasms, which can be very painful and sometimes debilitating.
Try to relax and not let your nerves ruin your first massage experience. Some of the things you experience during your first massage may seem to be a bit odd. Do not allow this to keep you from the enjoyment. Just lay down and let your mind relax.
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.
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.
An easy way to give a relaxing massage is by using a technique called “raking”. In it, you just run your fingertips (spread hands) down the person’s back, gently moving back and forth. Really, you’re doing a raking motion up and down. For added effect, try alternating your hands – one rakes up while the other rakes down.
When using massage oil, before putting it on a person’s back, place it into your hands first. If you place the oil directly onto your partner, the oil may be surprisingly cold and startle the person. That’s not the kind of reaction you want from a massage. Instead place the oil first in your hands and warm the oil up by rubbing your hands together. This will make the oil the perfect temperature to use.
The slower the movement in a massage the greater the soothing impact. 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. Also make sure to use your weight so you don’t get tired.
When you’re stressed out or feeling emotional, aromatherapy massage is for you. The therapist will use essential oils while massaging your skin. They know exactly which oils will give you energy, relax you or help to bust stress. Lavender is frequently used to calm your mind and body, allowing you some peace.
If there’s an illness going around, you can increase your chances of staving it off. Research has shown that massage can stimulate your white blood cell count. Healthy white blood cells comprise an important part of the immune system which helps you stay healthy and strong by fighting off germs.
What should one use for a self-massage? Whatever you can use! If you’re massaging a knot out of your thigh, why not use your elbow? Is your neck sore? Fingers will do, but you can also buy a massaging neck roller. Try out different items and body parts and see what works for you.
Increase the benefits of your exercise regimen by massaging your body before and after exercising. Massages before exercising can boost blood flow to muscles. Use your fists to make pummeling motions on your arms and legs. Doing massages after exercising can help speed up muscle recovery and better waste removal. You can do these by rubbing along your muscles using your palms or fists moving towards your heart.
If you have any medical conditions, such as you are pregnant, make sure that you let your massage therapist know. Some techniques may not be appropriate for your condition, so it is best to let the therapist know before starting. This will give him or her enough time to adjust techniques.
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.
You can eliminate pain in the stomach and promote digestion by giving your stomach a massage. Just rub your abdomen in a clockwise motion with your palms. This can assist in the digestion process. You should be gentle and not allow your abdomen to experience pressure until your food is digested.
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.
Get to your massage early. While it’s time to relax, it doesn’t mean you come in late. Massage therapists are often booked all day, and they need to keep those appointments.
Now that you know how to find a great massage therapist for your personal needs, You can get to work trying to find one. Schedule an appointment and prepare yourself for the most relaxing experience of your life. Before you know it, you will feel refreshed, renewed and ready to take on another day.
