Everybody all over the planet needs to relax from time to time. No matter what sort of life you have, taking time out for a treat is welcome and usually challenging. If you’re in this boat, you’d probably benefit from a great massage. This piece will tell you how to get yourself the very best massage.
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.
If your baby is having a difficult time sleeping, give massage a try. Massage is relaxing and easy for any parent to do. Just rest the baby on your lap and rub the back, arms, legs and neck gently. You can even use a little oil to make the massage more enjoyable.
A popular back massage you can try out on someone is called a “Raking Massage”. With this technique, you spread your fingers apart and use your tips to give the massage. Begin in the shoulder area and work your way down the back using a raking motion. Then, you move your fingers down the spine without actually touching it. Move one hand down as the other hand moves up.
When using massage oil, before putting it on a person’s back, place it into your hands first. If you place the oil directly onto your partner, the oil may be surprisingly cold and startle the person. That’s not the kind of reaction you want from a massage. Instead place the oil first in your hands and warm the oil up by rubbing your hands together. This will make the oil the perfect temperature to use.
Request that the lights be dimmed for your massage. A room with dim lighting provides a more relaxed atmosphere than a fully lit one. The room need not be totally dark, but the lighting should be similar to that provided by candles.
It’s a good idea to have your client shave a day or two before your appointment. This helps create a smooth working surface, especially if you will be using oil. Your hands will be able to move without hitting any obstacles, making the massage that much better.
Scented oils can make a massage feel much better. The scents should not be too strong. A strong medicinal fragrance should be avoided; use something that smells fruity or floral. This will put the person getting the massage into a zone where he can relax and enjoy the massage.
If you have recently contracted the flu, a massage may help alleviate the pain and stiffness generally associated with the flu. For the best relief, gently rub warmed lotion over your entire body using a circular motion. This will not only alleviate aches, but it will also help re-hydrate your skin.
If you usually schedule full body massages, wash your feet thoroughly before going. You do not want germs to be carried from your feet to the rest of your body during the massage. This can be avoided with a good cleaning ahead of time.
After receiving a great deep tissue massage, remember to drink a lot of water. Deep tissue massages release toxins from the muscles, and water helps to clear those toxins from your body. By drinking several glasses, you will keep your body hydrated and avoid feeling lethargic after your massage.
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.
You can give yourself a hand massage by using a pencil with an eraser. Use the pencil eraser to press into the fleshy areas of your hand, paying particular attention to the thumb pad. Move the eraser in a circular motion around your hand maximizing the pressure if it is necessary.
Do not forget to tip your massage therapist. Many therapists work mostly for tips and only receive a small percentage of the price you pay for the massage. They will appreciate a good tip, and it will be remembered the next time you return. A fair tip is typically fifteen to twenty percent.
A license is necessary if you enjoy massaging enough to take things to a professional level and earn a profit. You can likely get your massage license in just a few months. Once you do this, you can make money by being a massage therapist. You may want to get a massage table to work at home or you might want to work for a company.
Consider a hot shower after a massage. A hot shower can further relax your muscles, and it gives you an opportunity to stand still and enjoy all the benefits of the massage. The hot water is also very relaxing, lending to the stress free atmosphere you have probably hoped to create.
Drink lots of water after a massage. This will help to flush the toxins out of your system faster. Be sure to drink only pure filtered water after a massage. It has got to be water if you want the full detoxifying effects.
The oil that you use during a massage is going to enhance the experience. Use a lavender oil to promote relaxation. Use patchouli, jasmine or sandalwood oils for a more intimate massage. And if you want a warming oil, you can use ginger oil that will create heat to the touch.
You know you deserve a massage, and now you know how to get one. You are now well informed about what to look for and how to get what you need. Apply this information to find just the right massage therapist for you.
