Would you like more information on how to give a great massage? If you take the time to learn some insider tricks, it is possible that your friends and family will think you have secretly been taking classes in massage therapy. The following article will give you some useful tips that you can try yourself.
When giving a massage, consider using a little bit of oil. Oil helps you to rub your hands over the skin more easily, and it also makes it easier to go deeper with pressure while giving the massage. Almond oil, olive oil and baby oil are all good choices. If you wish, add a little essential oil to make the massage fragrant.
One great massage technique that you can do for your partner is called raking. Raking means that you spread your hands out, and using your fingertips, you rake up one side of the back right by the spine while you rake downward on the other side with your other hand.
Massage is great during pregnancy, but wait until after the first trimester. During the first trimester, your baby is in the earliest stages of development. Toxins released during a massage can harm the fetus or inhibit growth during this delicate period. Once you have reached 16 weeks, you should be all clear to enjoy a massage.
You should try different techniques when giving a massage. Use your hands and fingers to rub, apply pressure or even give gentle taps. Use the tip of your fingers if you need precision, for instance to relax a tense muscle. You could also try covering as much surface as possible by using the palm of your hands to apply pressure.
Try giving yourself or someone a foot massage. Focusing on the soles first can really relax a person. Start stroking the soles of the foot going back and forth in straight lines. Do these motions starting from the heel to the bases of the toes. After the soles have been properly massaged, you can move on to the toes and the top and middle of the foot.
Try to limit all background noise when you are giving your massage, as the environment should be as quiet and calm as possible at all times. You will want the person you are massaging to relax their muscles so that your massage technique will work, as a quiet atmosphere helps to facilitate this.
Consult with your masseuse before the massage. Knowing what will happen during the session will help you to relax. This is also an opportunity for you to discuss any allergies or concerns you may have with products used during the massage. Ask for music if you like, or anything else that will increase your comfort level.
If you have recently contracted the flu, a massage may help alleviate the pain and stiffness generally associated with the flu. For the best relief, gently rub warmed lotion over your entire body using a circular motion. This will not only alleviate aches, but it will also help re-hydrate your skin.
When you are giving a person a massage, be sure to always keep one hand on them at all times. This helps the client to feel secure and remain in a relaxed state. Move slowly and steadily with confidence, and the person being massaged will feel comfortable and be able to enjoy the experience.
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 enjoy working out, you should try massaging your muscles before and after exercising. You should pummel your muscles with your fists to improve your circulation before working out and massage your muscles more gently after working out to speed up the recovery process. Make sure you stretch after massaging.
Massage is an important part of spending time at a luxury spa. Although most people cannot afford this type of indulgence on a regular basis, visiting a spa a few times during the year can provide the type of rejuvenation everyone needs from time to time. Enjoy the massage and every other part of your day to the fullest.
Put massage oil into your hands and rub them together before placing the oil on the back. Cold oil can be uncomfortable when it’s placed right on the skin, which can make the experience start off bad. You don’t want to rub too hard to the point where the oil is absorbed into your skin. Just rub gently until warm. The heat generated by the friction warms the massage oil, making it the ideal temperature.
Wake yourself up in the morning or calm yourself down at night with a good massage! To do this, gently thump your body with your fists. Begin at your legs and arms and go from bottom to top. This massage is great for relieving stress and tension. However, avoid this massage if you are currently taking any blood thinners because you could bruise your body.
Don’t lie on a spa intake form! It is important that you list any medical issues or injuries you have experienced. This not only protects the spa from liability if you end up sick after the massage, but it allows them to determine exactly how the massage should be conducted for your health and safety.
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.
Hopefully after reading this article, you feel ready to give your first massage. You may be surprised by how much massage skills can improve your life. Get started today, and continue to learn more so that you get even better.
