It’s about time you learned what you’re doing with your hands when it comes to giving massages. You will be proud, and those you love will benefit as well. There are many different types of massages and techniques, but just learning a few of them as you continue reading will be very helpful.
If you decide to get a massage in the comfort of your own home, take a hot shower first. The hot water will help relax your muscles through the penetrating heat. This will ensure that your massage is more comfortable and any aches or pains are eliminated before the start.
After your massage, drink some water. The pressure from a massage will release toxins into your body that were being held in by the muscle. You will find fewer side effects from your massage by flushing these toxins away with plenty of water. Drink quite often in the 60 minutes following the massage, and try to continue getting fluids up to a day later.
Stretch before you go to get a message. This will help to loosen you up just a little bit before hand so that your massage therapist can quickly locate any problem areas that you might have. If you have extreme pain you may not want to do this, otherwise it is a good idea.
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.
Heating oil, such as almond oil or olive oil is a great strategy to use when giving someone a massage. The reason you use massage oils instead of gels or lotions is that the oils are absorbed into the body and can help soothe your muscles. A massage oil also helps your hands glide gently over the body of the person receiving the massage.
A popular back massage you can try out on someone is called a “Raking Massage”. With this technique, you spread your fingers apart and use your tips to give the massage. Begin in the shoulder area and work your way down the back using a raking motion. Then, you move your fingers down the spine without actually touching it. Move one hand down as the other hand moves up.
Do not get up immediately after your massage, especially when receiving a deep tissue massage. Most people will experience bouts of dizziness or feeling light-headed if the body has not had time to process the ministrations of the masseuse. Relax a bit more and let your body regulate itself before you get back to your day.
Schedule your massages smartly. If you usually get sleepy after a massage, you should avoid getting one before you have to go to work. However, if massages help you get some energy, do not hesitate to schedule a massage before you have to go through a stressful day at work.
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.
Use candles to set the mood. Candles provide subtle lighting, while simultaneously creating a relaxing atmosphere. Scented candles are also a great idea. Place them evenly throughout the room, at varying elevations. It is also important to be safe when using candles. Keep them away from hanging fabric such as curtains.
Pay attention to how your partner responds during a massage. If your partner tenses up, you are probably massaging him or her in a way that is too intense. If your partner seems to feel tickled, you might be going too light with your fingers. Paying attention can help you to find the right balance that will really please your partner.
Never smoke or drink before you get a massage. Engaging in these acts not only puts your health at risk, but will cause you to be more anxious and tense during your massage. Also, the effects of these actions will reduce your feeling and sensitivity to the massage, which are two factors that you want when you get one.
When you have a professional massage, make sure that you speak openly with your massage therapist. Inform them of problems or injuries you would like focused on, or ignored. If something feels uncomfortable, do not hesitate to let them know. You’re supposed to be enjoying a very relaxing experience.
Ankle rotations are a great technique to help your feet relax and your joints loosen a little. Put your hand on your heel. Take your other hand and firmly hold the ball of the foot. Then, twist your ankle so that your foot turns. Do this up to five times in each direction.
When giving someone a massage, make sure the environment is relaxing. This is all about relaxation and releasing tension. A loud environment is not going to help your partner relax. It should be so peaceful that the client might even doze off. Dim down the lights and play soft music to achieve this peaceful effect.
Well, you’re not a massage professional now, but you certainly know more of what to do with your hands. It’s time you put those tips to good use, so get started by practicing on someone. They will enjoy it, and you will be happy that you’re learning so much so quickly.