Want to learn how to receive and give incredible massages? A massage is one of the best approaches to relieving stress. This article will tell you how to do it right.
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.
The raking method is a popular way to give a back massage. Spread your fingers out wide and use your fingertips to perform a raking motion down the back, from shoulders to hips. You can increase the pressure to the recipient’s liking. This is a simple way to relax your significant other and spend some quality time together.
Keeping an eye on your partner is key when it comes to giving a great massage. Watch their muscles for signs of tensing up, and keep an eye on the expressions on their face. Your touch will greatly improve as you practice and gain experience. If their body becomes tense, you are probably applying too much pressure.
Use slow movements if you want your massage to be calm and soothing. Support your thumbs while applying pressure to ensure that they don’t wear out. Take advantage of your body weight as well to fend off fatigue.
A method called trigger-therapy, or neuromuscular therapy, works by applying pressure to certain targeted points. Trigger points in the body are irritated muscle areas which feel like lumps or knots. Trigger point knots are painful and can cause referred pain in other parts of the body. When you apply pressure correctly, the pain will be greatly reduced.
Try not to exceed 45 minutes when you are giving a massage. Remember that you are pressing down on someone’s body for a long period of time when you are massaging. Therefore, if you do it for too long you can actually cause bruising and pain, which you will want to avoid.
Know that getting a neck massage can be a powerful thing. Many people retain lots of tension in the neck area. This area is an easy body part to massage and is one which can deliver great benefits. Use oil or lotion on both your hands, and massage both neck and shoulder muscles.
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.
Migraines are quite painful. If you have been afflicted by migraines, you understand how devastating they can be. Luckily, people have found that massages are great at taking away the symptoms of these kinds of headaches and the pain they bring.
When you plan to book an appointment for a massage, call up a few local spas and ask them what they have to offer. You may find that they provide a massage style which you’d like to try out, or that they don’t offer the old standby you’d prefer to use.
Don’t lie on a spa intake form! It is important that you list any medical issues or injuries you have experienced. This not only protects the spa from liability if you end up sick after the massage, but it allows them to determine exactly how the massage should be conducted for your health and safety.
When getting a massage, your actions will help you enjoy the massage more and receive maximum benefits from it. Practice deep breathing exercises while you are getting your massage. Breathe out when pressure is applied and breathe in when pressure is released. This will have an immeasurable impact on the relaxation of your massage.
Learn the many options available in a massage before you go. For instance, different therapist use different methods, and you should know what these are. These different techniques all provide different effects and sensations.
You should ask for feedback when giving a massage to someone. Remind the person that you have no way of knowing how efficient your massage is if they do not let you know how they feel. Encourage the person to guide you so you can find the area that is tense.
Remember to breathe deeply when receiving a massage. You want to bring oxygen to every part of your body to enhance the healing effects of the massaging action. Breathe in and out of your nose to create a meditative type state, and make sure to breathe deep into your abdomen.
When getting up from a massage, do so slowly. Roll to your right side and sit up slowly. Ask your massage therapist for a hand if you need it. Do not stand too quickly or move around the room too suddenly. You might feel dizzy after a massage, and taking this approach can help you to avoid slips and falls.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you have to spend a lot of money to get a good massage. Meanwhile, it is human nature to choose well known spas, a smaller center or a massage school can offer the same services. Sometimes lesser known places offer better massages than their more expensive counterparts, for half the price.
Prior to making your first visit to a massage clinic, make sure you research the facility. Consumers often post reviews online, and the Better Business Bureau will let you know if there have been any complaints lodged against the practice. Finally, you can also talk to your local Department of Health.
Give your new techniques a try on a loved one. Try it after work or on the weekend. Just keep the simple tips from this article in mind the next time you go ahead and give a massage.