There isn’t anything better than getting a massage. Those who are getting massages need advice on where to get a good massage, and those giving massages need to know how. Keep reading to learn about everything massage can do.
Do you suffer from extreme muscle aches and pains? If so, visit a massage therapist or read a book about trigger points so that you can learn how to treat these pains. When muscles tense up too much, little knots can form and these are referred to as trigger points. These trigger points may refer symptoms like pain to several parts of the body. Ask a masseuse, look up information online and/or read a book to learn about trigger points and what you can do to relieve them.
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.
Petrissage is the best way to relieve stress and make pain disappear. This method requires you to use your fingertips and your thumb. Grab hold of a muscle and squeeze it for a few seconds before moving on to a different area. Go over the same areas several times until the pain disappears.
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.
It’s a good idea to have your client shave a day or two before your appointment. This will make for a much smoother surface, and make sure that you do not pull any hair by accident during the massage. Your hands will be able to easily glide during the massage.
When you have a client that you are giving a massage to, ask whether or not they are comfortable. The last thing that you will want is someone who does not feel secure when you are giving a massage. Additionally, they will be very tight and tough to massage if they are anxious.
Have the person you are massaging lie on a flat surface while on their stomach. This is the most beneficial position when you are giving a massage, as it allows their back muscles to stay loose while there is nothing pressing against it. You will want their position to be loose and free at all times.
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.
An excellent way to give a great back massage is using the “raking” technique. This involves using the tips of your fingers. Make sure that you spread your fingers apart. Begin your massage at the shoulders and slowly move your hands down the other person’s back. Your fingers should move alongside the person’s spine; however, you should not actually touch the spine. While one hand is going down one side, have your other hand go up in an alternating motion.
When you have completed a massage where you used oil, be sure that your client is offered a shower if possible. This is a soothing step that will remove the excess oil. Additionally, it will benefit the skin by preventing blemishes caused by pores clogged with oil.
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.
Following your massage, just rest quietly for a bit. Your body needs time to adjust after receiving a massage. You may feel dizzy if you get right up. This could leave you dizzy or even nauseated. Allow yourself to sit up for a few minutes and then stand.
When you are giving a massage, the atmosphere you provide will do wonders for your partner. Try using soft music in the background to relax your partner. Diffuser oils and candles will relax your partners senses and make them feel at ease. Also using low or soft lighting will help your partner relax and get into the mood for a great massage.
If you are suffering from tension in the lower muscles of your body, get a deep tissue massage. There are five muscle layers in your body as this massage gets the lowest level of muscles. This is great if you play sports or have chronic tension that is not going away anytime soon.
Create a warm and relaxing environment for your patient. The temperature should be comfortable enough that exposed skin is not cold. You may choose to play relaxing music if you both agree to it. Turn off any cell phones and perform the massage in a clean room to minimize distractions.
With the use of all these tips, you will be ready to get a good massage. It doesn’t matter if you’re giving a massage or receiving one, massage is a fantastic way for anyone to feel better after getting one. Continue exploring expert massage advice to become the best massage therapist you can possibly be.