Massage therapy is one of the best things you can do for your mind, body and soul. When done properly, a massage can renew the way that you feel in just minutes. Below, you will find a guide to use to find the best massage that will alleviate many of the discomforts you have.
If you suffer from back pain, especially in your lower back, having regular massages could be very beneficial. Having a professional relax your muscles can really work wonders and prevent you from further back injuries. It can also help with back spasms, which can be very painful and sometimes debilitating.
When trying to find a good massage therapist, you should only look at those who have are licensed. A licensed therapist has been through specific training and can better understand your unique needs. Choosing someone with a license gives you the confidence of knowing that you are dealing with a competent professional.
Make sure the person you give a massage to is comfortably installed. Ideally, you should use a massage table or at least a comfortable mat. If you do not have this equipment, have the person lay down on a comfortable couch or a supportive mattress. Make sure their head is properly supported.
If you’re getting a full body massage, make sure the masseuse uses a massage oil. These oils are a must if they plan on digging deep into your ligaments and muscles without causing discomfort. These oils make their hands slippery, which helps reduce friction and lowers the chances of getting skin burns.
Neuromuscular therapy is a type of massage where you apply pressure to trigger points. These points are knots or lumps in the muscle that are irritated. These areas can be quite painful and that pain can actually radiate out to other parts of the body. When you apply pressure correctly, the pain will be greatly reduced.
After a massage, take your time while getting up. Your body has just spend a long period of time face down and relaxed. You may feel a little dizzy as you get up, so make sure you move slowly.
If you’re pregnant, you can still enjoy a massage if it is given by a license therapist. This is a great way to deal with morning sickness, stress, back pain, sore breasts and swollen ankles. You can continue it after birth to deal with postpartum depression, weight loss and baby-carrying pains, too.
A sports massage is beneficial for anyone who is active in athletics. It can even benefit someone who just likes to exercise. These massages help increase stamina and strength, over time.
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 can be disabling. Should you be a sufferer of migraines, you can easily grasp how strong a migraine can impact you. Fortunately, massage can be beneficial to migraines.
When your massage therapist tells you to drink water, listen! It is easy to become dehydrated quickly after a massage because toxins and fluids are released from your body. Drinking lots of water will help to replenish the fluids you are losing. If you choose to drink caffeine filled sodas or alcohol instead, you will suffer the consequences.
Be on time, or a little early. Besides being good etiquette, being punctual can actually help your massage be effective. When you are running late, you are usually in a frenzied state, increasing stress levels and putting your body on edge. In a massage, this means it will take you longer to unwind and you may not get all of the benefits of a relaxing rub down.
Don’t be afraid to speak up if you are getting a sports or deep tissue massage. If you feel discomfort or pain at all you should tell your massage therapist, because the only way they will know is if you speak up. Your therapist has a right to know if you are experiencing anything uncomfortable.
If you are going to be giving a massage, make sure that you are using lubricant. Lubricant can be any form of lotion or even therapeutic oils. Whichever you choose, make sure that it is appropriate for the recipient of the massage. Lubricants can help you glide across the body without disturbing the rhythmic movements.
If you are getting a massage and you do not feel comfortable or suddenly feel like you are in pain, do not be afraid to end it. You are the paying customer whose pleasure should be the number one concern, so if you feel discomfort at any time, you have the right to conclude your session.
You should think about the purpose of your massage. Did you become injured? Suffer from excruciating pain? Do you just want to relax? Once you identify your purpose, you can choose a massage therapist that meets your needs.
If you are unsure of which massage therapist to see in your area, ask your family members and coworkers. Referrals are crucial. While they don’t ensure that you will get a great therapist, they do increase your odds tremendously. After you get a few names, do your own research to see which person you think best fits your needs.
Drink plenty of water before and after your massage. Drinking before your massage session ensures that your muscles are well-hydrated and supple, making the massage more effective. Water after your massage will flush out the toxins that were released and can even help prevent soreness by hastening muscle recovery time.
Now that you know how to find a great massage therapist for your personal needs, You can get to work trying to find one. Schedule an appointment and prepare yourself for the most relaxing experience of your life. Before you know it, you will feel refreshed, renewed and ready to take on another day.
