A massage is one of the best ways to relax and unwind. But, in order for one to really reap the benefits of a massage, there are some things you should know about. In the following article, you will be provided with tips to ensure your experiences with massages are positive ones.
If you have problems with tension headaches and medication is not doing the trick, consider massage. Massage helps to relax the body, and it can target specific pressure points that offer benefits. Enjoying a massage once a week might be all you need to get rid of your headaches and keep them away.
Discuss your needs with your therapist. Some people may feel a little uncomfortable at the prospect of getting a massage because they feel out of control. Tell the massage therapist about any sore areas, such as your back, knees or neck, so that they can avoid them or treat them accordingly. And don’t forget to let them know of your preferences for things like background music, room lighting and temperature. The whole point is for you to be able to relax, so make sure the conditions suit you.
If you need help with stress or pain, you should get a massage from a professional. Asking someone you know to give you a massage can be helpful but keep in mind that a trained professional will be able to use technique your friend or relative does not know about.
When you’re done with your massage, you need to rise slowly. Your body has just spend a long period of time face down and relaxed. You’ll probably feel light-headed when you initially stand up, so be sure to move carefully to make sure you’ve got your balance.
If you will be getting a complete body massage, thoroughly wash your feet before starting. Your feet are covered in bacteria, and your massage therapist might help bacteria spread to other parts of your body since the full body massage usually begins with the feet. You’ll be glad you cleaned your feet once the massage is over.
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.
Don’t swear off using a massage therapist of the opposite sex. You may initially be weird about it, but get over it! Men may have the height and strength you need to work out the kinks from a really bad back, and women may have the relaxed touch you need to de-stress. Be open to whoever may best fit your current need.
When you are finished giving or getting a massage, try to give your body at least 10 minutes to recuperate. Since this is not something that you do everyday, you will not want to walk right out after you are done. It is important to maintain regular blood flow before you engage in normal activities again through a short rest period.
Extend the benefits of your massage by taking things easy for the rest of the day. Allow your mind and body to stay in the relaxed zone by practicing deep breathing throughout the day whenever you feel the tension returning. Plan a low-key, relaxing dinner followed by a warm bath, then get into bed early and curl up for a nice, restorative night of sleep
When you are going for a massage, make sure that you communicate with your therapist. Going to a massage therapist is similar to going to a doctor. Have any questions or concerns ready when you go to the appointment. Tell the therapist about any areas that need work, the type of massage you would like or ask any questions about different kinds of massages you may have heard about.
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.
Make sure you tell your masseuse about any old injuries you may have, or if you have had major surgery in the past. Your massage should feel wonderful and not exacerbate any physical issues you might have! Keep your masseuse in the loop about any medications you are taking, as well.
You may already know that it is customary to tip your masseuse. If you are new to this, tipping 15% to 20% is customary. The only time you shouldn’t think about tipping is if you are getting physical therapy treatments at a medical facility. Never hand your masseuse a wad of cash, leave it at the front desk with the clerk.
When giving a massage to your dog, it is important you choose an area in your house that is free of distractions and noise. This can make it easier for your dog to relax. Make sure you provide a comfortable area for the dog to be massaged. This can be on a bed, sofa or soft towel.
When giving a massage, do not be scared to apply light pressure to an area that is specifically tough. Start gently in the beginning, asking for feedback as you go, to ensure no pain is being caused. If you target muscles carefully, the pressure will eliminate pain and stress. Do not try these methods if you are working near the spine.
As the start of this piece discussed, one of the best ways to find relaxation is through a massage. However, it is important that you know certain things before you can really enjoy one. If you use the tips this article has provided you with, you will soon see why millions of people enjoy massages.
