You have come here to learn more about how to give a good massage. There is plenty that goes into this, and you can even go to school for it. However, by the end of this article, you should have a good idea of how to improve your massage techniques and skills.
Talk to friends and family about getting massages. They may not know how good massage is for them. They may not know about the benefits of massage therapy, and some of them have probably never gotten a massage before. Be an ambassador for the benefits of massage and show them how much massage can help them.
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.
Do not immediately engage in strenuous activity following a massage. Taking a short, calming walk or sitting and reading for a few minutes would be ideal. It is often reported that people feel dizzy following a massage, and this means that the body is not ready to jump into heavy lifting or heart racing activities. It is fine to enjoy these activities a little later in the day, about an hour or so after your massage.
Not every person that you massage is going to be the same, so make sure that you adjust to what the person likes. If you're noticing positive responses when massaging certain areas, give extra attention to those regions. Take the feedback to heart.
Do your best to relax while getting a massage. You might feel uncomfortable about getting a massage from a stranger, but this experience will be more enjoyable if you relax and talk to your massage therapist. Let them know about your preferences and do not hesitate to explain that you are not entirely comfortable.
When your feet hurt, you hurt all over. Relieve the pain with a good foot massage you can do on your own or someone can do it for you. Stroke your foot with your thumb from the base of your heel to your toes. This motion should go back and forth across your foot at the same time.
If you are pregnant, it can be very beneficial to have regular prenatal massages. This helps increase blood flow to your baby, while also helping you to feel relaxed. Having regular prenatal massages can help premature babies grow much quicker.
When setting the stage for a massage, put on some gently music and play it softly. Music tends to relax the recipient of the massage. This mental preparation also helps this person release the tension in his muscles. This will improve the effectiveness of your massage and your hands work to loosen up the tight muscles.
The legs are very important when giving a massage. Many of the largest muscles in the body are in the legs and these are often the most used. Be responsive to your partner when massaging their legs and try to encompass the entire muscle group. Start up high around the butt and work your way down to the ankles.
Remember to breathe deeply when receiving a massage. You want to bring oxygen to every part of your body to enhance the healing effects of the massaging action. Breathe in and out of your nose to create a meditative type state, and make sure to breathe deep into your abdomen.
Pilates and Yoga are also considered a form of massage. The pressure of the various poses in conjunction with the floor, mat and/or props can be beneficial to pressure points and increase healing blood circulation. They also strengthen your muscles.
Ask all the questions you need to. Your therapist will answer any questions that you have to help reduce your stress. The therapist wants you to feel relaxed, and having your questions answered is a big part of that.
You will want to make sure to tell your masseuse any personal information that is medically relevant. If you are allergic to certain smells, for example, let him or her know so that oils with those scents are not used. Make sure to disclose any surgeries or old injuries you have had.
Never smoke or drink before you get a massage. Engaging in these acts not only puts your health at risk, but will cause you to be more anxious and tense during your massage. Also, the effects of these actions will reduce your feeling and sensitivity to the massage, which are two factors that you want when you get one.
How do you feel now? Do you think you could give a better massage? It's time to put these tips and tricks to the test as you see what you can do. You are going to be pleasantly surprised at how much they work and how much the people you love will enjoy them.