There are so many different types of massages. There are hot stone massages, shiatsu, aromatherapy and Swedish. With all of these styles and types, it is difficult to keep track. The foundation of knowledge you’ll get from the below article will help.
Feeling a little blue? Go get a massage! The health benefits of massage are numerous, and studies have shown that one of the benefits of massage is elevated serotonin. Serotonin is a neurochemical that makes us feel happy, yet lack of sleep, hormone fluctuations, gloomy weather and poor diets can lower your body’s natural serotonin stores.
Tailor your massage techniques to each individual. If you notice a positive response to a particular area, stay in that specific area longer. Take the feedback to heart.
Giving a great massage is all about feeling out your partner. The best massage therapists will tell you that you need to let your hands read the body. Follow the bodies curves and lighten pressure as you go over bony areas. Modify the shape of your hand to fit in the curves of the body.
When giving a massage, it is very important that you use oil or lotion. Massage oils can increase the movements of the soft tissue. Using oil will minimize the pinching and tugging feel on the skin. Massage oils come in all different varieties. They include aromatherapy and provide lubrication and nutrients.
You can give yourself a foot massage if you don’t get one when you receive a massage. It is important that the germs on your feet won’t contaminate other parts of your body. If a foot bath is not offered, make a quick trip to the bathroom ahead of time and use the sink to wash your feet.
There is a technique athletes use to give themselves a foot massage. Message your feet by rolling over a tennis or golf ball. Move your foot in both a heel to toe and a side to side motion. Focus on the most sensitive part of your foot, the arch.
The Japanese love to engage in a form of massage called shiatsu. This uses the pressure from the masseuse’s fingers pressed in a rhythm on your acupuncture meridians. The pressure is applied for a few to many seconds, boosting energy flow and returning the body to balance. It doesn’t leave you sore, either!
Once massage becomes a routine part of your life, it will be important to establish a good relationship with your therapist. You should be able to unwind more if you have a good relationship with the individual working with you. Before jumping right in, get to know your therapist, at least on a casual basis, so that you can relax and feel safe.
When giving a massage to someone, you need to be careful about the amount of pressure you are putting in them. Applying too much pressure could cause damage to their nerves, joints and muscles. Also, you should be massaging toward the heart, as applying the wrong way could cause damage to veins.
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.
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.
Tell your therapist about any medical problems or conditions you have. This also means letting them know if you’re pregnant. Letting them know gives them the opportunity to tailor your massage to your specific needs. If you don’t communicate, you may end up in danger.
During a massage, your hands should be capable of interpreting the responses given by the patient’s body. Work your palms and fingers equally along the surface. Anytime you rub someone’s bony areas, only apply a small amount of pressure with your hand so that you prevent pain. For soft tissue, use your thumbs.
Doing eye massages can relieve tired and sore eyes. The main benefit of this massage is using warmth to relieve pain and strain. Begin this massage by rubbing your hands together vigorously. Do this until your hands start to feel warm. When hands are warm, cover each eye with a palm until the warmth goes away.
Get a massage both before you exercise and after, so that blood flows more freely into your muscles and helps them recover more quickly. Before you start exercising, use fists to do a pommeling motion on the muscles to encourage blood flow in your arms and legs. Use your palms or fists to rub muscles toward your heart after exercising.
Make sure you tell your masseuse about any old injuries you may have, or if you have had major surgery in the past. Your massage should feel wonderful and not exacerbate any physical issues you might have! Keep your masseuse in the loop about any medications you are taking, as well.
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.
Keeping in mind what you had learned, you can go and truly enjoy massages. Discovering new tips and techniques will help you to build your skills up and give massages like the professionals do. When it comes to massage techniques, you can never learn enough information.
