Have you previously had a massage? If not, then it is an experience that you should have at least once. However, there are many different types of massages that you may not have heard about. Being unaware of this might mean that you are missing out on the perfect massage. Read the following article to learn of important massage tips.
Change your mindset about massage. Instead of thinking of it as a luxury, think of massage as a therapeutic approach to health. Research shows that massage can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as lessening asthma symptoms in children. Additionally, those tension headaches are no match for the hands of a skilled massage therapist.
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.
Use healing oils, such as olive and almond, when performing a massage. Oil is absorbed by the skin more easily than gel or lotion, and it is more pleasant to handle and to feel on the skin. A massage oil also helps your hands glide gently over the body of the person receiving the massage.
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 a lot of shoulder tension, try a bear hug technique. Make an X across the front of yourself by wrapping both arms around your chest area. Rest your hands on your shoulders; start to gently move them in a circular motion. This is an easy way to relieve tension. It is also a way to get a fast massage anytime.
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.
Help the massage therapist by relaxing your body. Avoid trying to “help” by tensing certain muscles or areas. The massage therapist is well-educated in various ways to maneuver your body parts to achieve the best results from massage, but their work is hindered if you can’t relax. Try doing some deep breathing and practice just letting go and trusting the therapist to do a great job.
If you need help with stress or pain, you should get a massage from a professional. Asking someone you know to give you a massage can be helpful but keep in mind that a trained professional will be able to use technique your friend or relative does not know about.
When you feel that you want a massage, tell the masseuse where your issues are. Getting a massage is all about relaxation. Do not expect your therapist to find your problem areas right away and relieve the pain if you do not communicate and explain the kind of pain you are experiencing.
Have you been having trouble sleeping at night? This is a common problem that a lot of people have in common. If you are leery about taking prescription or over the counter sleep aids, there is a solution. Having a massage relaxes you mind, body and spirit, which helps you to fall asleep easier each night.
If you are getting a full body massage, always ask to take a shower or at least wash your feet prior to beginning the massage. You can hold a lot of dirt and bacteria on places like your feet and hands, and you do not want your massage therapist massaging those areas first and then placing their hands on your face for further massage.
The longer you are massaging, the faster you should go. It’s a good idea to start out at a slower speed so that the recipient has time to get used to the massage and help relax them. Eventually, you will be able to give more pressure and do it more quickly.
This may be something you already know, but make sure you tip your massage therapist generously. It is not only the kind thing to do, but also earns the respect of your therapist if you plan on returning. Always show up on time for your massage because it not only shows you are serious, but you won’t cut into someone else’s massage time.
How much should you tip a masseuse? If you’re at a hotel or a local spa, 20% is pretty standard. If they work from home, each therapist will typically set their own policies, but 20% is fair. If they work in a massage clinic, ask them for their rules – some will include the tip in the price.
At the end of the day, people who’ve had a good massage before understand just how wonderful it can be. You are likely even more convinced now that you have learned some new things here. Implement the tips above and soon you will have a great massage experience.
