There is not a person in the world who doesn’t enjoy some down time. Yet life hits us left and right every day with things to do. It’s often very tough to relax. If you are one of these people, get a massage! If you want to know the right way to go about getting a massage, this article is for you.
If you suffer from back pain, especially in your lower back, having regular massages could be very beneficial. Having a professional relax your muscles can really work wonders and prevent you from further back injuries. It can also help with back spasms, which can be very painful and sometimes debilitating.
Start your massage at the top of the back. This is important as there are a lot of muscles and knots tied up in this area. This technique will help you to soothe the person you are massaging and serves as a great bridge to the other areas of the body.
Do not worry about your body when getting a massage. A masseuse can do their job better the less clothes you have on. Masseurs are trained on how to sheet-drape, so you will always have your most intimate parts covered while you receive your massage. Obsessing over your physical appearance through the whole massage can keep you from getting the most out of it.
Do not get up immediately after your massage, especially when receiving a deep tissue massage. Most people will experience bouts of dizziness or feeling light-headed if the body has not had time to process the ministrations of the masseuse. Relax a bit more and let your body regulate itself before you get back to your day.
Know that it may take you some time to become a massage expert. Begin by giving massages to people with whom you are at ease, and solicit feedback on your technique. Next, you can move on to your significant other.
Your feet are a lot more sensitive than they look. You can find many nerve endings in this part of your body and massaging your feet could help you relieve the pain you experience in another part of your body. A foot massage is also a great way to relieve stress.
Massage has been found to help people who suffer from mental disorders, not just physical conditions. Having a massage not only relaxes the body, but the mind as well. This can really help to reduce anxiety and depression in people who suffer from these conditions. Regular massages can really help your mental well-being.
Avoid holding your breath while your massage therapist is working. You may have knots that are extremely painful, yet the therapist cannot massage them out effectively if you hold your breath. Try to breathe through the muscle pain, and use a combination of deep breathing and visualization. In your mind, picture the area and imagine the knot is a lump of butter, melting in the warm sunshine.
If you are going to be giving a massage, make sure that you are using lubricant. Lubricant can be any form of lotion or even therapeutic oils. Whichever you choose, make sure that it is appropriate for the recipient of the massage. Lubricants can help you glide across the body without disturbing the rhythmic movements.
Massaging your own shoulders can be enjoyable if you do it right. Beginning at the top of your spine, using one hand or two, use your hand to stroke from skull to shoulders. Then work your way across the shoulder outwards. Go back towards the neck and repeat the process.
Wake yourself up in the morning or calm yourself down at night with a good massage! To do this, gently thump your body with your fists. Begin at your legs and arms and go from bottom to top. This massage is great for relieving stress and tension. However, avoid this massage if you are currently taking any blood thinners because you could bruise your body.
If you are unsure of which massage therapist to see in your area, ask your family members and coworkers. Referrals are crucial. While they don’t ensure that you will get a great therapist, they do increase your odds tremendously. After you get a few names, do your own research to see which person you think best fits your needs.
Prior to making your first visit to a massage clinic, make sure you research the facility. Consumers often post reviews online, and the Better Business Bureau will let you know if there have been any complaints lodged against the practice. Finally, you can also talk to your local Department of Health.
Drink plenty of water before and after your massage. Drinking before your massage session ensures that your muscles are well-hydrated and supple, making the massage more effective. Water after your massage will flush out the toxins that were released and can even help prevent soreness by hastening muscle recovery time.
When massaging tense muscles, don’t be afraid of applying pressure and even thumping on them. Be gentle at first and ask for feedback to make sure you are not causing pain. By applying pressure to specific areas you can work out knots in muscles, which should release any stress or pain. Be careful not to use too much pressure near the spine or a joint.
Learn the proper finger techniques for doing a back massage at home. It’s true that you will be mainly massaging using a finger and a thumb on each hand. However, massaging using only those digits will cause you to wear your thumbs out, so try using the other fingers on your hands to support them.
You surely deserve the pampering, and you now have the knowledge to get it. The article you’ve just read has given you excellent advice on massage therapy. Use these tips and your next massage will be your best one yet.
