Don’t you want to know how to give a better massage? You’re going to be surprised that it’s not major adjustments that are needed in order to make this happen. Instead, you are going to find out that gentle techniques and short tips are what get you to the point where you’re giving people great massages.
Change your mindset about massage. Instead of thinking of it as a luxury, think of massage as a therapeutic approach to health. Research shows that massage can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as lessening asthma symptoms in children. Additionally, those tension headaches are no match for the hands of a skilled massage therapist.
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.
Massaging can help you with any arthritic symptoms that you may have. While medication can relieve some pain, it’s only temporary. When you need something more then the meds, consider getting a massage. Massages help with improving your circulation, getting your blood flowing and allow your joints to become more flexible.
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.
Consult with your masseuse before the massage. Knowing what will happen during the session will help you to relax. This is also an opportunity for you to discuss any allergies or concerns you may have with products used during the massage. Ask for music if you like, or anything else that will increase your comfort level.
Bear hug techniques can help with shoulder tension. You should hug yourself and reach your shoulders with your hands. Put one hand on each shoulder and rub. This quick massage technique will relieve some of the tension from the day.
If you suffer from PMS each month with excessive water retention and cramping, there just might be some help for you. The power of massage has been shown to help reduce that unsightly water retention so that your pants will fit a little easier. It also can help relieve the pain that comes with cramps.
If you want to become a skillful massage therapist, you have to realize that you need to spend time in developing your skills. Feedback is important, so make sure you ask your clients how the massage feels. Then, when you have a decent sample, you can practice on your girlfriend or boyfriend.
Work slowly for a soothing benefit. Provide support to the thumbs with the other fingers when you utilize your thumbs to create pressure. Also make sure to use your weight so you don’t get tired.
Your feet are a lot more sensitive than they look. You can find many nerve endings in this part of your body and massaging your feet could help you relieve the pain you experience in another part of your body. A foot massage is also a great way to relieve stress.
If you are giving a romantic massage to your partner, consider lighting the room with candles. Candles provide just the right amount of light so you can see what you are doing, while still allowing your partner to relax. They are also very romantic, and they can lend to the feeling you are trying to create in the moment.
Massage can help your marriage if you have a high stress job. When you come home after a hard day at work, as soothing massage by your mate can increase your love and appreciation for him or her. Instead of feeling too tired for romance, you will be more open to spending some quality time.
Aromatherapy massage uses scented therapeutic massage oils along with gentle kneading motions. These scented oils add another dimension to the standard massage by incorporating the sense of smell into the massage therapy. Aromatherapy often uses lavender, eucalyptus and chamomile. This type of massage is perfect for people suffering for stress related pain.
The truth is that no massage therapist wants to rub dirty feet. Therefore, you should shower and wash thoroughly before going to an appointment. Your massage therapist will be happy and you won’t be smelling yourself during your massage experience.
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.
Go online for help in selecting a massage therapist. If that doesn’t work, talk to your primary care physician. You can also talk to a nurse or a chiropractor in the area whose work you respect. Professional recommendations are almost as good (if not better) than personal recommendations, particularly if you trust the individual.
The massage is supposed to reduce stress and a great way of doing this is by knocking the problems away beneath a well-placed elbow. Using your fists as well, you can thump the stress away in a relaxing manner before bed. This will help improve the quality of their sleep by calming the muscles and allows the patient to have a good night’s rest.
To maximize the benefits of a massage let your mind go. Do not think about things you have to do or should have done. Try to focus your mind as much as possible on your breathing in order to bring awareness back into your body. Focusing on your breath will also help clear your mind and get more relaxed.
Do you now feel like it’s time to give the person you love the best massage? Take what you’ve learned with you so that you can use it and continue to expand upon your knowledge. You now know how to give a much better massage, so make it happen!
