If you have ever been stressed out and gotten a massage, you know about the healing power of touch. If you get massages regularly, it can be a wonderful way for you to start really feeling good about yourself. Here are some massage tips to open this world a little bit more to you.
If you suffer from frequent tension headaches, you may benefit from a professional deep tissue neck massage. To perform a deep tissue massage, the massage therapist uses a stretching technique along with pressure to pull and stretch your muscles. This allows the muscles to relax; thus, relieving your headache and tension.
Ask any questions you may have during your massage session. Your massage therapist will happily answer any of your questions. Your relaxation is the end goal, so ask away.
If you are suffering from back pain and traditional back massages are not alleviating the pain, try a hand massage. Firmly press into the meaty area between your thumb and index finger and gently massage. This type of massage is especially effective for muscle spasms and pulled back muscles.
If you are a massage therapist, take your cues from the patient when it comes to how much you are talking. If someone is trying to feel calm and relaxed the last thing they want to hear is you chattering constantly. Nature sounds or soft music is all that should be heard. Keeping things quiet will ensure that they have the most relaxing experience possible.
There is no real dress code when you decide to go out and get a massage. If you are concerned about dressing appropriate, speak with the spa or your message therapist beforehand. By addressing clothing concerns, you can ensure that you won’t feel embarrassed or uncomfortable during your massage. If there is an area you also don’t want massaged like your behind, tell the therapist before starting.
When your feet are aching after a long day, consider having some reflexology. This therapy uses pressure on specific areas of the foot which are connected to your organs, just like in acupuncture. It causes not only your feet to feel amazing, but also helps balance your systems and gives you a great deal of relaxation.
Consider getting a massage in either just your underwear or naked. Skin to skin contact is important during any massage, and this can only be accomplished if you remove your clothes. You can always use a blanket to cover up if you are concerned about modesty or staying warm during the process.
This may be something you already know, but make sure you tip your massage therapist generously. It is not only the kind thing to do, but also earns the respect of your therapist if you plan on returning. Always show up on time for your massage because it not only shows you are serious, but you won’t cut into someone else’s massage time.
To perform a pregnancy massage, have the expectant mother lie on her side and gently rub her back using a circular motion. A pregnancy massage is especially beneficial during the third trimester when the weight of the baby creates pressure points in the expectant mother’s lower back and buttock areas.
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.
Apply pressure when giving a massage. Always ask the person if you are hurting them, and take it slowly to begin with. By applying pressure to specific areas you can work out knots in muscles, which should release any stress or pain. Be careful not to use too much pressure near the spine or a joint.
If you want to put some spark back into your relationship, consider giving your partner a romantic massage. They are more intimate than a standard massage and can really relax your partner for some couple focused bonding time. It will enhance your relationship through touch and make your partner feel special.
If you find that you receive a lot of benefit from getting massages, consider setting up a regular schedule. Doing so allows you to understand more of what you need from your therapist. You will also be better able to determine if someone is doing a good job with you or not. Each therapist is different. Some are good and some simply can’t give you what you need. Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself.
Communicate all of the allergies that you have to your massage therapist. It is vital that no creams or lotions are used that you are allergic to, as this could cause major issues. If you are allergic to the products that are used, you can bring a product prescribed by your doctor to incorporate into the massage.
While you may feel concerned about being rude, don’t hesitate to voice yourself while getting a massage. If you feel cold, you don’t like the scent of candles used or the therapist is being too rough, speak up politely. Your masseuse is not a mind reader, and won’t know your preferences if you don’t tell them.
If you suffer from anxiety, ask your doctor if regular massage therapy might help. This treatment has been used for centuries to ease the body and relax the mind. If only for an hour a week, you should be able to escape from the pressure, stress and discomfort that anxiety causes you.
Now that you have had a chance to learn more about massage, you can use this wonderful technique to your advantage. Whether you give massages or receive them, massage can be a great therapy for all of us. You just have to remember what you have learned here, and pass it on to others.