Massage can be oily, deep, soft or focused on only one area of the body. There is Swedish and aromatherapy, hot stone and shiatsu. It can be difficult to learn the different types of massage. You will be ready for whatever comes your way when you have great massage advice.
After your massage, drink some water. When you stimulate tissues as part of a massage, you release toxins into the body. You’ll reduce your soreness by flushing out these toxins with water. Try to have two or three glasses in the first hour and at least eight glasses in the following twenty-three.
You have to make adjustments because everyone that you give a massage to will be different. If you see that a certain area is giving off a positive response, stay in that area during the massage. Take the feedback to heart.
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.
One of the best things that you can do before and after your massage is to drink a lot of water. Water will help to eliminate some of the free radicals that are in your body, which may be causing your discomfort in the first place. This will optimize your overall experience.
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.
After you have had a massage, it is very important to drink plenty of water. You will be sore because of the toxins that have been released into your system by the massage. If you drink water right after the massage, you can flush these toxins out of your system more quickly.
Use candles to set the mood. Candles provide subtle lighting, while simultaneously creating a relaxing atmosphere. Scented candles are also a great idea. Place them evenly throughout the room, at varying elevations. It is also important to be safe when using candles. Keep them away from hanging fabric such as curtains.
Try not to exceed 45 minutes when you are giving a massage. Remember that you are pressing down on someone’s body for a long period of time when you are massaging. Therefore, if you do it for too long you can actually cause bruising and pain, which you will want to avoid.
If you suffer from medical conditions such as high blood pressure or are pregnant, speak up before getting your massage. In most cases, a massage will still be safe, but the technique will probably need to be adjusted. A professional massage therapist can help you get the relaxation you are seeking while remaining safe if you are willing to speak up.
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.
When you are finished giving or getting a massage, try to give your body at least 10 minutes to recuperate. Since this is not something that you do everyday, you will not want to walk right out after you are done. It is important to maintain regular blood flow before you engage in normal activities again through a short rest period.
Do not be afraid to try new massage techniques when visiting the spa. Some spas offer massages where hot stones are used, others couple massages with a chocolate wrap or seaweed. These techniques can enhance the entire experience, benefiting your muscles, skin and psyche. Consider them if you are looking for a real pampering experience.
Be prompt for your massage. Even though it is for stress relief, that doesn’t mean you can walk in when you want to. Also, you may lose your appointment if you are not on time.
Don’t lie on a spa intake form! It is important that you list any medical issues or injuries you have experienced. This not only protects the spa from liability if you end up sick after the massage, but it allows them to determine exactly how the massage should be conducted for your health and safety.
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.
Privacy is of the utmost importance when doing home massage. Whether you’re the one that’s receiving a massage, or you’re giving one, you need to do it during a time that people won’t be disturbing you. Also, you should not have any electronics on as this can create a disturbance. You also need to choose a location where people are unlikely to disturb you.
If you plan to give a massage, ensure the atmosphere is right. Keep the air at room temperature and avoid any drafty windows or doors. In the background, play some easy listening music and light scented candles to really set the tone. Once the room is ready, get down to work!
Now that you have learned some great massage knowledge, you can enjoy and give better massages. You’ll become a confident masseuse. Remember to always be looking for new advice and ideas so that you can be the best masseuse you can be.