You have come here to learn more about how to give a good massage. There is plenty that goes into this, and you can even go to school for it. However, by the end of this article, you should have a good idea of how to improve your massage techniques and skills.
When giving a massage, consider using a little bit of oil. Oil helps you to rub your hands over the skin more easily, and it also makes it easier to go deeper with pressure while giving the massage. Almond oil, olive oil and baby oil are all good choices. If you wish, add a little essential oil to make the massage fragrant.
Don’t eat a lot prior to getting a massage. After you eat, you may get a feeling of bloat or discomfort, which will make it hard for you to lie down during your massage session. Therefore, make sure you don’t eat less than an hour before your massage so that your food can completely digest. This way, if you need to lay on your stomach or turn a certain way, you won’t have any issues.
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.
Before you massage someone, try out different oils on them. Each person is different and will have a different reaction to oil; you must find what works for them. You need to have the oil on the skin in order to reduce the friction during the massage.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you go for a massage. Your massueuse will be happy to answer any concerns that you might have. The therapist wants you to feel relaxed, and having your questions answered is a big part of that.
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.
Avoid holding your breath while your massage therapist is working. You may have knots that are extremely painful, yet the therapist cannot massage them out effectively if you hold your breath. Try to breathe through the muscle pain, and use a combination of deep breathing and visualization. In your mind, picture the area and imagine the knot is a lump of butter, melting in the warm sunshine.
If you are a woman, don’t swear off men massage therapists. Since most women are modest, they often feel uncomfortable in front of a male massage therapist. However, some women have reported that the best massage they have gotten in a long time is from a male massage therapist. Whatever your decision, don’t just base it on the sex of the massage therapist.
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.
Be on time, or a little early. Besides being good etiquette, being punctual can actually help your massage be effective. When you are running late, you are usually in a frenzied state, increasing stress levels and putting your body on edge. In a massage, this means it will take you longer to unwind and you may not get all of the benefits of a relaxing rub down.
If you massage the body either side of a workout, your blood flow will increase and your recovery time will be shorter. You can rub your arms and legs to get your blood flowing. At the completion of your exercise, rub your muscles.
A great massage to relieve strained shoulders is a bear hug. To begin, cross your arms over your chest. Grab your shoulder with either hand. Then, squeeze a shoulder and release it about three times. Do this for both of them. After that, move down your arms, squeezing and releasing them until you reach your wrists.
When you are stumped for what to give as a Christmas or birthday present, consider buying a coupon for a healthy massage! Everybody loves the soothing and relaxing benefits of a deep tissue massage and who couldn’t use the extra pampering? Especially for the person who has everything, the gift of massage is perfect!
If your shoulders are bothering you, you should try hugging yourself and massaging the muscles you can reach while hugging yourself. This exercise will also help you stretch your entire back. You should try this technique if you have to sit on a chair during most of your work day.
When you decide to get a massage, make sure that you are relaxing your thoughts. It can be easy to feel nervous, especially if it’s your first time. Most professional spas usually have relaxing music playing. If you hear the music, channel your thoughts into paying attention to the individual notes. This can help you relax in your tense moments.
How do you feel now? Do you think you could give a better massage? It’s time to put these tips and tricks to the test as you see what you can do. You are going to be pleasantly surprised at how much they work and how much the people you love will enjoy them.
