There are many types of massages available. There is aromatherapy, Swedish, shiatsu and hot stone. It can be hard to sort through the many different kinds of massage. You will be equipped for all you massage needs with the information included here.
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.
If your muscles are always in pain, you should seek out information on neuromuscular therapy. Tiny knots know as trigger points are common when muscles are tight. Trigger points can cause pain and various other symptoms in different parts of the body. A book on the subject or a trained massage therapist can educate you about how to use massage to rid yourself of these points.
It isn’t a good idea to eat immediately prior to a massage. The last thing that you want to feel during a massage is uncomfortable. Therefore, it is important that your food has ample time to digest before your massage. This can make you sure that you’re comfortable all of the positions that you’re in while getting a massage.
Check references before deciding on a massage therapist. You want to know how others feel about their level of service before you subject yourself to a possibly painful massage. Be sure that you find reviews that are independent from the therapist so that you know that they are truthful and informative.
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.
Your massage can be significantly enhanced with a good scent. Do not overpower your clients with the scents you choose. Stay away from scents that remind you of medicine and stick to floral or fruit-like scents. The person getting the massage will be able to relax and feel more comfortable with this pleasant fragrance in the air.
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.
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.
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.
Hydrate, hydrate. A massage loosens lymph fluid, lactic acid and other toxins from your soft tissues. This is part of what makes your muscles feel so nice afterward. However, if you are dehydrated, there is no way for these toxins to leave your system. This could leave you feeling sore and slightly nauseated after your massage, which defeats the whole effort and wastes money. So, make sure you drink up!
If you have any medical conditions, such as you are pregnant, make sure that you let your massage therapist know. Some techniques may not be appropriate for your condition, so it is best to let the therapist know before starting. This will give him or her enough time to adjust techniques.
Don’t swear off using a massage therapist of the opposite sex. You may initially be weird about it, but get over it! Men may have the height and strength you need to work out the kinks from a really bad back, and women may have the relaxed touch you need to de-stress. Be open to whoever may best fit your current need.
There is a helpful massage that helps to relieve sinus pressure and congestion. To do this massage, begin by placing your fingers right above your nose and pressing down. Be sure you are rubbing outward. Next, put your fingers under your eyes, moving down and rubbing out. Massage the cheekbones with your thumbs and then put your thumbs on your temples, moving in small circles.
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.
Massage therapy is a great alternative to pain medication. In addition in relaxing you, massages help with sore joints and muscles. Ask your insurance company if they will reimburse if massages are medically required, they may be covered.
Try not to go to a massage appointment with a full stomach. It is better to have eaten about half an hour before your appointment. A massage requires that you lay on your stomach for an extended period of time, and this can be very uncomfortable if your belly is too full.
With these simple tips, you will find massages to be more enjoyable. Knowledge will help you to know what to expect, reducing any anxiety that you might have. Continue to read and learn in order to stay abreast of any new information and be always a massage enthusiast who knows what they’re truly talking about.
