Getting or giving the perfect massage is one of life’s great pleasures. It helps let the daily stresses melt away and can bring couples closer together. There are a number of helpful tips to help improve a person’s massage skills. Read on to learn all about massages, both giving and getting one.
Pregnancy can be especially hard on your body over the course of nine months. Carrying the extra weight from the baby can lead to aches and pains in places that you never knew existed. Treating yourself to full body prenatal massages can be just the thing to get you feeling more like yourself again.
When giving a massage, it is very important that you use oil or lotion. Massage oils can increase the movements of the soft tissue. Using oil will minimize the pinching and tugging feel on the skin. Massage oils come in all different varieties. They include aromatherapy and provide lubrication and nutrients.
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.
If you are suffering from back pain and traditional back massages are not alleviating the pain, try a hand massage. Firmly press into the meaty area between your thumb and index finger and gently massage. This type of massage is especially effective for muscle spasms and pulled back 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.
When your feet are aching after a long day, consider having some reflexology. This therapy uses pressure on specific areas of the foot which are connected to your organs, just like in acupuncture. It causes not only your feet to feel amazing, but also helps balance your systems and gives you a great deal of relaxation.
How much should you tip a masseuse? If you’re at a hotel or a local spa, 20% is pretty standard. If they work from home, each therapist will typically set their own policies, but 20% is fair. If they work in a massage clinic, ask them for their rules – some will include the tip in the price.
Look for a minty cream to use during a massage. This scent is refreshing and relaxing, which is exactly what you want. High quality moisturizing lotions and creams are important.
When you pay for a massage, be certain to speak honestly and openly with the masseuse. Tell them immediately if you have injuries or specific areas where you are having problems. If something does not feel right, feel free to speak up. After all, this experience should be relaxing.
If you are giving a deep tissue massage, incorporate your elbows into it. This may feel uncomfortable at first for the person you are massaging, but is a fantastic way of spreading out the muscle and causing a very pleasurable sensation. Never push too hard though, as this will then feel uncomfortable.
A great massage to relieve strained shoulders is a bear hug. To begin, cross your arms over your chest. Grab your shoulder with either hand. Then, squeeze a shoulder and release it about three times. Do this for both of them. After that, move down your arms, squeezing and releasing them until you reach your wrists.
It is important to take care of your body after you leave from your massage. Water is a big part of that care. It helps you get rid of any toxins that are remaining in your body, so it is important to drink a large glass once you arrive home.
Ankle rotations is a great way to help your feet relax and help the joints to loosen. Place a hand underneath the heel and use your other hand to grab onto the ball of your foot. Then rotate your foot with your hands in both directions.
If you notice that you are having a lot of pain in your head, opt for craniosacral therapy. This massage technique focuses primarily on the skull and down the middle of your back with minor pressure that relieves tension and helps trauma. This is a good massage to have if you are older and find yourself sore more often.
These tips should help you find the perfect massage, teach your partner what to do or even improve your own massage skills. Whether you and a partner do it yourself or you find a professional to do it, a good massage is one of the most pleasurable things you can enjoy. Good luck.
