You might be surprised that it’s not too difficult to learn more about giving better massages. Yes, you can enroll in massage therapy classes, but you could also continue to read this article and learn some great ways to improve your massage technique. Start right now!
If you have been feeling particularly stressed out, it just might be time to have a relaxing massage. Massages are not only helpful to relax you mentally but physically as well. It helps to promote circulation and loosens up your muscles. Let go of some of your stress with a massage.
Always be gentle when giving someone else a message. Even if the person you are massaging complains, you should avoid applying too much pressure to their muscles and joints. Unless you have been trained in message therapy, you are more likely to hurt them than to relieve their pain by being more forceful.
Reduce all external sound when you are giving a massage. If there are loud noises around you that are disturbing, it surely will be difficult to relax enough to enjoy the massage you are receiving. As you know, you must be able to relax to get most out of the massage. If at all possible, you should choose a quiet place for your massage or play relaxing music to drown out negative noises. This will help your overall state of mind during the massage.
The type of oil used in massage therapy is important, so look for ones with healing properties such as olive or almond oils. Oil is better for the skin and scented oils may have other healing benefits as well. It will also allow your hands to move much more smoothly across the skin.
You should watch your partner when giving a good massage. Take note of any facial expression or if they tense up when massaging a particular area. As you progress in your technique, your ability to read the body through your hands will increase. For example, if your subject feels tense, you may realize that you are applying too much pressure.
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.
The light and gentle massage technique is often referred to as Swedish. It helps increase circulation and relax your partner. This type of massage is also excellent for athletes who have muscle fatigue. You must be careful with this type of massage and listen to your partner. They could have injuries and if the massage is painful, you need to stop.
If you tend to have a lot of tension in your muscles, but you don’t like a rigorous massage, hot stone massage might be your best choice. The stones, which are smooth, are made warm and then placed onto specific areas of the body. This warms the muscles and tissues, releasing tension and pent-up energy.
Do not forget to stretch before and after you receive a massage. A massage will be more efficient if your muscles are already warm and you will have more energy after your massage if you take a few minutes to stretch your muscles. Besides, stretching is an efficient way to relieve muscle pain.
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.
Consider a Swedish massage or a deep tissue massage if you don’t know what you should get. There are plenty of types to choose from, and some may not be as good as others. These two types of massages are perfect for beginners.
Increase the benefits of your exercise regimen by massaging your body before and after exercising. Massages before exercising can boost blood flow to muscles. Use your fists to make pummeling motions on your arms and legs. Doing massages after exercising can help speed up muscle recovery and better waste removal. You can do these by rubbing along your muscles using your palms or fists moving towards your heart.
Finding the right therapist is very important when it comes to massages. You do not want to visit an inexperienced or inept therapist who may cause you more harm than good. Ask friends or family if they know of a good one in your area or look on the Internet for reviews.
If your partner needs a deep massage, use your body weight to help. Massaging strictly with your hands can get exhausting very fast, making the massage less enjoyable for the both of you. When you put some weight into it, it is easier to go deeper and provide a longer massage experience.
You should ask for feedback when giving a massage to someone. Remind the person that you have no way of knowing how efficient your massage is if they do not let you know how they feel. Encourage the person to guide you so you can find the area that is tense.
Now you have some helpful tips when it comes to massage. Continue to learn and always be on the lookout for new opportunities to educate yourself. Now get out there and try out the new skills that you have just learned.
