Are you having troubling pain in your back, or maybe your legs? Have you tried everything short of surgery, but still can’t seem to get rid of the pain? Maybe you need to try getting a massage. In the following article, you’ll find more information about how you can use massages to treat your pain.
If you decide to get a massage in the comfort of your own home, take a hot shower first. The hot water will help relax your muscles through the penetrating heat. This will ensure that your massage is more comfortable and any aches or pains are eliminated before the start.
As you progress in the massage, be sure to use your thumbs, as well as your palms and fingers. They are strong, and can be great for muscle stimulation. Don’t push incredibly hard since it can cause some discomfort to that person you’re massaging.
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.
One of the best things that you can do before and after your massage is to drink a lot of water. Water will help to eliminate some of the free radicals that are in your body, which may be causing your discomfort in the first place. This will optimize your overall experience.
The speed of your hands is important for the kind of massage you are trying to give. If you are looking for a massage to relax your partner, go for slow strokes. If you are looking to work out tired muscles that have been over exerted, faster strokes work better.
It is ideal if the person receiving the massage can shave a day or two prior to the massage. This helps provide a smooth surface, specifically if you’re using oil. This allows your hands to freely flow, resulting in a better massage.
You must make sure you slowly get up after getting a massage. You’ve spent 30 to 60 minutes lying face down while getting a massage. You may experience a mild sense of being light-headed when you stand, so be careful that you don’t lose your balance.
Use candles to set the mood. Candles provide subtle lighting, while simultaneously creating a relaxing atmosphere. Scented candles are also a great idea. Place them evenly throughout the room, at varying elevations. It is also important to be safe when using candles. Keep them away from hanging fabric such as curtains.
Before you get your full body massage, make sure your feet are clean. You never know what type of bacteria or fungus is residing there, and the massage therapist can inadvertently transfer that to other parts of your body. Good hygiene is important prior to getting a massage.
Be vocal with your massage therapist.Talking may be the last thing you really want to do during a massage, but it can be the difference between an ok experience and a great one. You need to let the therapist know what areas need work and what techniques work best.
Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor about massages. If you deal with back pains or muscle pains on a regular basis, ask your doctor if massages would be a good solution. Your doctor should be able to recommend a good massage clinic in your area and even write you a prescription.
If you are always getting sick, massages can help. Studies show that white blood cell production is increased by massage therapy. This will improve the overall quality of your immune system as well.
Prior to getting a massage, inform your massage therapist of all the problem areas you have. If you don’t you may end up wasting half of your massage time on areas that need a lot less work to feel good! This communication will give your therapist a plan of action for the limited time there is available.
If you enjoy working out, you should try massaging your muscles before and after exercising. You should pummel your muscles with your fists to improve your circulation before working out and massage your muscles more gently after working out to speed up the recovery process. Make sure you stretch after massaging.
You should take the time to learn more about the human body, especially its muscles and nerves. You will be able to give better massages once you know where sensitive nerve endings are located and have a better idea of where muscles are. You will also understand the pains you experience a lot better once you know more about your body.
The patient isn’t made of glass, so don’t be afraid to close your fists or use your elbows to thump along the body’s outline. This small exertion of force at the beginning of a massage helps waken the nerves and loosen the tired muscles. Apply a gentle amount of force and follow along the shoulders, ribcage, and lower neck for maximum efficiency.
Calming music is important when you are giving a massage. Soft music helps to relax the person. The muscles relax and the tension releases easier when the person has a relaxing environment. Playing music increases the effectiveness of massage.
As you can see from this article, massage can be a viable solution for treating pain. Many people will attest to the benefits of a good massage, so why not get the benefits for yourself? Remember what you’ve read in the article and try a massage for yourself. You’ll be surprised at the results.
