If you’ve always want to give and get massages, but know little about the subject, fret not. There are definitely a lot of things to be learned, but they are all within your reach. The article below has the information that you need to make informed decisions about the art of massage.
Try getting a therapeutic massage. There has been proof that this type of massage can lower stress levels, help get rid of tension headaches caused by contracting muscles in the face, neck and head, and better the breathing of asthmatic children. It’s believed that is type of massage is so successful due to people believing in it so much, which creates a powerful mind and body connection.
Try to relax and not let your nerves ruin your first massage experience. If you have never gone before, you may not understand all of the methods involved. However, you should not allow this to turn you away from enjoying a massage. Just let them do the work and relax.
Hydrate yourself well for forty-eight hours before your massage. Many people know that heavy water intake after a massage is good for flushing the body of toxins and helping with sore muscles. Drinking plenty of water before the massage will greatly increase the impact of the massage and its purging abilities.
Regulate your breathing during a massage. It is not uncommon to feel apprehension or anxiety during a massage, particularly if you are new to receiving them. Remember that you are in a safe environment and dealing with a professional. You will not be able to relax if your breathing is not normal.
Analyze how your partner is reacting to the massage as you do it. You must observe muscle tension and facial expressions. It takes practice, but over time you will be able to read their body with your hands. If the body tenses, you may be applying too much pressure.
Make sure that your massage therapist is registered in your state. If your massage therapist is not properly registered and insured, then you are at risk of being left to fend for yourself if they were to cause injury to you during their work. Do not worry about being rude, ask for proof so that you can be confident that you are in responsible hands.
Swedish massage therapy is the most frequently offered type available. Some people consider this to just be a basic massage. The strokes are long and smooth, done in a kneading motion, typically in circles. The masseuse will normally use oil during the process. It is not too rigorous and quite enjoyable.
It is not the best idea to jump right up after a massage. Understand that you have been lying face down for thirty minutes to an hour. You might feel a little lightheaded as you first get up, so be sure that you watch your balance.
Deep tissue massages penetrate deep into muscle tissue, and this is optimal for healing pain. Deep tissue therapy includes slow motions that cause friction against the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massages focus on tight muscles and help to loosen them up.
Avoid holding your breath while your massage therapist is working. You may have knots that are extremely painful, yet the therapist cannot massage them out effectively if you hold your breath. Try to breathe through the muscle pain, and use a combination of deep breathing and visualization. In your mind, picture the area and imagine the knot is a lump of butter, melting in the warm sunshine.
Prior to having your full body massage, make sure your feet are clean. The feet are capable of transmitting lots of germs which can be spread over the entire body during a massage. Just clean them before, and you will be much safer.
Have you been having trouble sleeping at night? This is a common problem that a lot of people have in common. If you are leery about taking prescription or over the counter sleep aids, there is a solution. Having a massage relaxes you mind, body and spirit, which helps you to fall asleep easier each night.
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.
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.
Pretend you are Buddha and give your tummy a rub! There is no mistake about it. If you do it correctly, you’ll aid the digestion process. Just put your hands on your stomach, palms down, and rub in a clockwise motion. This helps digestion go smoothly.
Avoid eating before a massage. You want at least 90 minutes between your last meal and your massage. However, more time is better. Allow your body to digest its meal so you can fully relax and get all the benefits of your massage. As a bonus you will be spared embarrassing stomach gurgling noises during your session.
Those who like the practice of giving massages might want a license in massage therapy. The proper training to be a massage therapist is very short, and it will allow you to make a living. You can choose to work in a clinic or purchase a massage table and receive clients in your home.
As you can now see, there are a lot of interesting variables that go into giving and getting great massages. Apply what you’ve learned here, and you will be an expert on the subject in no time. Going forward, enjoy the wonderful world of massage and what it can do for you.
