If you have ever been stressed out and gotten a massage, you know about the healing power of touch. If you get massages regularly, it can be a wonderful way for you to start really feeling good about yourself. Here are some massage tips to open this world a little bit more to you.
Try getting a therapeutic massage. There has been proof that this type of massage can lower stress levels, help get rid of tension headaches caused by contracting muscles in the face, neck and head, and better the breathing of asthmatic children. It’s believed that is type of massage is so successful due to people believing in it so much, which creates a powerful mind and body connection.
After a massage, drink plenty of water to remove toxins from your body. When you have a massage, toxins are released into your body and must be removed. By drinking at least two quarts of water right after a massage, the toxins will be removed. If you do not drink the required amounts of water, you may experience stiffness and pain from the massage.
An easy way to give a relaxing massage is by using a technique called “raking”. In it, you just run your fingertips (spread hands) down the person’s back, gently moving back and forth. Really, you’re doing a raking motion up and down. For added effect, try alternating your hands – one rakes up while the other rakes down.
Lubrication is important when giving a massage. The best lubricants will allow your hands to glide across the body. Oils work well as do many lotions. Try out a few different kinds and see which works best. You want a lotion that will not require reapplication causing breaks during the massage.
A foot massage can be used for more than tired, achy feet. You can search online and find foot maps that show which area of the foot can be massaged to experience relief from a myriad of symptoms throughout your body. For example, pressing on the big toe is known to relieve sinus pain and pressure.
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.
Asian massages are known to help relax the body. One not-so-common, but very relaxing Asian massage is called the Indonesian-Javanese massage. With this method, the therapist will use both their hands and knuckles to get so deep into the skin. This will help your muscles relax if they were tense.
There are many benefits to getting a Thai massage. In addition to reliving tension you may have in your joints and muscles, it can also strengthen your nervous system and help you become more flexible. The therapist will stretch your body out for you, but you must control your breathing.
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.
When massaging yourself, do you know where to rub? Wherever there is pain! Find the areas that are sore and move away from them slowly. If you discover a new place that has pain, rub it as well. Stop when you do not feel the benefit anymore.
To perform a pregnancy massage, have the expectant mother lie on her side and gently rub her back using a circular motion. A pregnancy massage is especially beneficial during the third trimester when the weight of the baby creates pressure points in the expectant mother’s lower back and buttock areas.
Try using your own visualization while getting a massage. Close your eyes and picture yourself in a favorite spot, surrounded by people you love. Take in all you love about the setting and transfer that to the feeling in your body. This can enhance your massage experience and help you to feel well rested.
It is important to take care of your body after you leave from your massage. Water is a big part of that care. Water can help eliminate free radicals from your body.
If you get massages all the time, you can practice stretching to prolong the benefits. Yoga is great for this. Stretching your muscles can help them stay stronger and will also loosen them up. It’s good to practice yoga for half an hour, at least three times weekly.
For an enjoyable and relaxed romantic experience with your significant other, try a massage. Use scented candles or oil for mood enhancement. Play calming music to set the mood just right for your massage. Finally, use scented oils in order to deeply massage your partner’s muscles.
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.
Now that you have had a chance to learn more about massage, you can use this wonderful technique to your advantage. Whether you give massages or receive them, massage can be a great therapy for all of us. You just have to remember what you have learned here, and pass it on to others.
