Do you have much stress in your life? Would you like to relax? Massage can really help you kick back and take things easy. The following article can help you get in touch with your inner massage therapist and learn all there is to know.
When massaging, remember to use those thumbs! Your thumbs are strong and should be used. Do not push too hard and make sure your nails are well-trimmed to prevent discomfort.
The type of oil used in massage therapy is important, so look for ones with healing properties such as olive or almond oils. Oil works much better than lotion for a massage and you will require far less of it. Oil makes it much easier for your hands and fingers to slide against the skin.
If you have a wound that is beginning to heal, massaging around that area will help it to heal even faster. Massage increases the amount of blood that is flowing to that area of your body. So, by massaging that area you are providing it with new blood to promote healing. This can also help to reduce scars.
When you decide to get a massage, make sure you are communicating with your massage therapist. If you have any massage preferences, make sure you tell him or her when entering the room and before starting. If during the massage you are feeling pain or experiencing numbness, make sure you let your therapist know by speaking up.
Minimize noise and interruption when you are giving a massage to another person. Massages are relaxing and if you speak it can break the mood. Play relaxing music or nature sounds while giving a massage. Try to keep things very silent otherwise.
If you are getting a professional massage, tell your massage therapist about any areas that are especially bothering you. The point of a massage is to get your muscles to relax and to target problem areas. Therapists aren’t psychics, so you have to guide them.
Before you give a massage, stretch all of the areas that you are planning to use. This means that you will need to stretch your fingers, arms, neck, back and legs so that you can reduce cramps during your massage and get all areas involved. If you are providing a long massage session, stretching is imperative.
Get to know your massage therapist well and develop a good rapport. You will be more at ease during your session if you establish a trust with your massage therapist. Spend a bit of time and effort connecting with your massage therapist prior to making an appointment so that you’ll feel more secure.
You can give yourself a hand massage by using a pencil with an eraser. Use the pencil eraser to press into the fleshy areas of your hand, paying particular attention to the thumb pad. Move the eraser in a circular motion around your hand maximizing the pressure if it is necessary.
Be on time for your scheduled massage. Even though a massage is about relaxation, this doesn’t mean you are free to arrive whenever you feel like it. Massage therapists are busy, and it’s not fair to them if you throw them off schedule.
If you spend most of your day sitting in front of a computer, you should take frequent breaks so you can massage your neck. Place your fingers at the base of your skull and squeeze your muscles gently. Stretch your muscles by tilting your head to the side before massaging your muscles some more.
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.
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.
Use scented massage lotion when you are giving a massage. The scent acts as aromatherapy and can enhance the feeling of relaxation. The lotion softens the friction between your hands and the person’s body, so the massage is easier on the skin. Find out what the scent preference is before you apply it.
Many of us have old injuries from playing sports, accidents, or just normal wear and tear on our bodies. If this is the case with you, it is very important that you let your masseuse know about any injuries you’ve sustained or areas of your body that are particularly sensitive.
If you often experience back pain, you should consider investing in a vibrating massaging pad. Some pads even have an option that allows you to apply heat to your muscles. Compare different products before you purchase on and choose one with different speeds so you can easily adjust it in function of your needs.
If you are unsure of which massage therapist to go to, try calling the practice and speaking to them. Discuss things like their education and how long they have been working. You can also question them to see if your needs fall into their particular specialization. You should get a good feeling for what the therapist is like just by asking a few simple questions.
Wash your feet before massaging them. You will not have to worry about germs once your feet are clean and the massage will be a lot more enjoyable once the skin is made more sensitive by the warm water. If you experience pain, soak your feet in warm water again after the massage.
Do not underestimate how powerful a good massage can be. By choosing to read this article, you have acquired knowledge of some great tips and tricks. The only thing you have to do now is use these suggestions. Everyone will notice the new you!
