You already know massage can assist you in relaxing and taking back control of all of your muscles. If you are new to massages, you can also use some tips to get the most out of your first time experience. You will also learn more about techniques you can use to massage your friends or relieve your own pains.
Feeling a little blue? Go get a massage! The health benefits of massage are numerous, and studies have shown that one of the benefits of massage is elevated serotonin. Serotonin is a neurochemical that makes us feel happy, yet lack of sleep, hormone fluctuations, gloomy weather and poor diets can lower your body’s natural serotonin stores.
When giving a massage, do not forget to focus some attention on the neck and shoulders. While much attention is paid to the back during a massage, the neck and shoulders can hold tension and stress too. Spending some time massaging them offers a lot of relief and can improve the massage experience.
Ask you friends who they use for their massages. It can be hard to find a massage therapist that you are comfortable with, but knowing that someone you know uses and trusts them you will feel that much better about it. Ask as many people as you can before you decide on one to try.
Set aside any anxiety or self-consciousness about your body when you schedule a massage. Your massage therapist will find it easier to work on your aching muscles if you aren’t wearing clothing. Masseuses know how to make sure you stay covered using sheet-draping techniques. Relax and don’t fret about how they may think of your body.
There’s a technique called “bear hug” that is great for tense shoulders. Just wrap your arms through your chest as you make an “x”. Place your hands on your shoulders and give yourself a good rub. It is a great way to relieve stress.
Slow movements can make a massage feel more soothing. Support your thumbs while using them to massage tense muscles. Also make sure to use your weight so you don’t get tired.
Trigger-point therapy works by applying concentrated pressure to individual trigger points. Triggers points are defined as the lumps or knots that need addressed. These areas can hurt a lot, and sometimes other parts of your body hurt from it. Applying pressure there so the muscles relax relieves the pain.
You can give yourself a hand massage by using a pencil with an eraser. Use the pencil eraser to press into the fleshy areas of your hand, paying particular attention to the thumb pad. Move the eraser in a circular motion around your hand maximizing the pressure if it is necessary.
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.
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.
Always tip your massage therapist. Since massage is a service industry, tips are encouraged. About 15 percent of the total bill is usually recommended. You could even pay more if the masseuse did a wonderful job. You won’t regret this on your next visit! You’ll get amazing massages in the future, too.
You should get a massage before and after working out. Before you exercise, you should pommel your body with your fists in order to stimulate blood flow. When you are done exercising, try rubbing your muscles with the palms of your hands towards your heart.
You should ask for feedback when giving a massage to someone. Remind the person that you have no way of knowing how efficient your massage is if they do not let you know how they feel. Encourage the person to guide you so you can find the area that is tense.
Massaging is a great way to relieve pain and stress but keep in mind that a massage might not be your best option if your joints or articulations are bothering you. You should go to a chiropractor for some adjustments instead of massaging or trying to adjust your joints yourself.
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.
Many of us have old injuries from playing sports, accidents, or just normal wear and tear on our bodies. If this is the case with you, it is very important that you let your masseuse know about any injuries you’ve sustained or areas of your body that are particularly sensitive.
As you can see, a lot is involved in a good massage. You will be able to give and receive better massages if you use the tips you just read. Utilize all you’ve read here so that you can maximize the enjoyment of a massage.