Massage is an art form that can provide great pleasure, relaxation, and even health benefits. Knowledge is key, however, if you want to get everything you can out of massage therapy. This article provides tons of data on the world of massage.
When giving a massage, do not forget to focus some attention on the neck and shoulders. While much attention is paid to the back during a massage, the neck and shoulders can hold tension and stress too. Spending some time massaging them offers a lot of relief and can improve the massage experience.
One simple way to give a massage is to use a “raking” technique. This is done by spreading your fingers and using your fingertips. Start in the shoulder area then move your fingers in a raking motion down the back. Make sure the fingers move along the spine not on top of the spine. While one hand moves up move the other one down in alternating motion.
Are you prone to muscle cramps either brought on by physical activity or sometimes nothing at all? These can be very painful, especially when they are in your calf. Massages can help to prevent your muscles from cramping up by promoting blood flow. You can also massage the area as soon as you feel it beginning to cramp up for some quick relief.
When you get a massage, don’t be shy. No question is ever dumb, and your massage therapist should welcome any that you have. This will help you feel serene and calm while you get your massage.
An arthritis sufferer knows the kinds of pain associated with it. While medication offers some support, it doesn’t always stop the deep pain felt from within the body. Therefore, you should consider getting yourself a massage to treat this condition. Massage helps increase flexibility and circulation.
If you have a favorite fragrance of massage oil, bring it to your next massage. More than likely, the therapist will be willing to use it. Sometimes they may have a preference for oils of a certain type, but it is definitely worth asking to see if they are willing to use your favorite.
When massaging someone, open your fingers up so that you can be more precise with the area that you massage. This helps to loosen up the muscles and is also a great technique if you are planning on giving a deep tissue massage. After you massage this way, close your hands back up and use your palms.
Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor about massages. If you deal with back pains or muscle pains on a regular basis, ask your doctor if massages would be a good solution. Your doctor should be able to recommend a good massage clinic in your area and even write you a prescription.
Communicate with your massage therapist. Your masseuse is most likely not a mind reader, so let them know if an area of your body needs a little extra attention. Whether your shoulders are a mess from being hunched over a desk or your legs are sore from a marathon workout, speak up.
What should one use for a self-massage? Whatever you can use! If you’re massaging a knot out of your thigh, why not use your elbow? Is your neck sore? Fingers will do, but you can also buy a massaging neck roller. Try out different items and body parts and see what works for you.
If you are new to getting a massage, you may be riddled with questions. Do you keep your eyes closed? Do you chit chat during the massage? Should you keep your eyes open when lying on your back? The best way to deal with all of these things is to do what feels right to you. The point of your massage is to relax and to feel relaxed.
Let your masseuse know of your music preferences. Many people enjoy relaxing music playing during their massage, however some do not. If you prefer a quiet environment while you get your massage, speak up. You can also specify a particular type of music or even request ambient noise such as bird songs or ocean waves.
Aromatherapy massage uses scented therapeutic massage oils along with gentle kneading motions. These scented oils add another dimension to the standard massage by incorporating the sense of smell into the massage therapy. Aromatherapy often uses lavender, eucalyptus and chamomile. This type of massage is perfect for people suffering for stress related pain.
Did you know that you can request a four hands massage when you go to your massage therapist? You actually will have two therapists working on you at the same time. The additional cost is usually far less than you would expect and the benefits of this type of massage are huge.
Be aware of all your options before getting a massage. There are many different techniques and some of these methods may not work well with your body or any injuries you have. Each technique has a different effect on the body.
Is there a specific reason you are in need of a massage? Have you been in a recent car accident? Does your back hurt? Or, is relaxation something you desperately need? No matter your reasons for needing a massage, you should know how to choose the right massage therapist.
Massaging is a great way to relieve pain and stress but keep in mind that a massage might not be your best option if your joints or articulations are bothering you. You should go to a chiropractor for some adjustments instead of massaging or trying to adjust your joints yourself.
There is no question that nearly everyone would benefit from a massage. However, it’s vital that you educate yourself about different massage techniques, as well as all the benefits that can be derived from a massage. Hopefully, you’ve just gotten the information you need to get started.
