Are you looking for a nice massage? Perhaps you would like to give one to someone you love? Regardless of which is true for you, you need to be knowledgeable about the process. The article below can help you with either giving or getting massages.
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.
Don't eat just before a massage. The last thing that you want to feel during a massage is uncomfortable. Give yourself enough time to fully digest your food. By waiting an ample amount of time, you will be comfortable during your massage.
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.
Make sure that your massage therapist is registered in your state. If your massage therapist is not properly registered and insured, then you are at risk of being left to fend for yourself if they were to cause injury to you during their work. Do not worry about being rude, ask for proof so that you can be confident that you are in responsible hands.
When you are giving a massage, try not to use the same stroke over and over. This can make the whole experience mundane, as you want to incorporate as much change during the session as possible. Alter your technique, the stroke and how hard you press on the back, neck and thighs.
Ask for the lights to be turned down. To enjoy a relaxing massage, a darker room can help provide a great atmosphere. You shouldn't be in complete darkness, but try to avoid lighting brighter than you would experience if you were using candles.
In terms of injuries, regardless of their age, deep tissue massage can be very effective. Effective deep tissue massages go against the grain of the muscles. In the case of repetitive use injury and ongoing pain, this type of massage is very helpful.
A massage can be dramatically improved with addition of an evocative scent. Keep your scents natural and mild, not overpowering and strong. Stay away from scents that remind you of medicine and stick to floral or fruit-like scents. 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.
Tell your masseuse where your body needs the most attention. A massage's goal is to relax your muscles and target your problem areas. Your therapist does not know you, which is why you need to tell him or her about your problems. They will be able to help you out best.
Many athletes know about a sports massage. This can also be used by those that exercise a lot. Sports massages help protect your body from injuries as well as alleviating pain associated with a sports injury.
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.
Boost the speed of the massage the deeper you go in. Start slowly to allow your subject time to relax and to acquaint yourself with the subject's body structure. Once into the groove, you can speed up and push harder.
One of the most enjoyable bonding activities between baby and parent, or other loved one, is a massage. Just grab a bottle of baby oil, take off your jewelry and make sure your hands are warm, and start at the top or bottom. Anything you do is likely to be enjoyable if you're gentle.
If you use oil for massages, offer your customer an opportunity to shower after the massage. In addition to washing off the oil, it can also relax the body further. It also ensures their pores don't clog.
Ankle rotations can help the blood flow in your legs and feet. You'll want to place one hand under your heel and the other hand is used to grab the ball of the foot. Then you should rotate your foot as many times as feels comfortable to you.
Before and after you exercise, you should give your body a good massage. Before you exercise, use your fists in a pummeling motion to stimulate blood flow to your arms and legs. After you exercise, rub your muscles with your fist or palm. Move along your heart's direction. This helps to speed up your recovery and aids in waste removal.
Use scented massage lotion when you are giving a massage. The scent acts as aromatherapy and can enhance the feeling of relaxation. The lotion softens the friction between your hands and the person's body, so the massage is easier on the skin. Find out what the scent preference is before you apply it.
Consider an Epsom salt bath following a deep tissue massage. Just add one cup of Epsom salts to a bath full of warm water. These salts can help the body to further release toxins, and they can also help to relieve any lingering sore spots. Soak in the bath for about a half hour for optimum results.
This article only touched upon a few things out of many about massages. What you have learned here is just the beginning. Use the tips and advice from this article to give the best massage that you can.
