Have you been thinking about giving massage to someone special but, are uncertain of how to do it? Do you want to learn more about the proper movements and supplies? If so, you are at the right place! This article contains several hints and tips to help you perform a great massage.
Always be gentle when giving someone else a message. Even if the person you are massaging complains, you should avoid applying too much pressure to their muscles and joints. Unless you have been trained in message therapy, you are more likely to hurt them than to relieve their pain by being more forceful.
Only disrobe to your comfort level. For many people, undressing for a massage is not a big deal. This is not the case with some and they often find themselves feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious during the massage. This will reduce the effect of the massage. Avoid this by only taking off the clothing you are comfortable with.
If you experience stress or other negative emotions, you should try massaging specific points of your body. Target your nerve endings to get your body to relax. Sensitive nerve endings are located along your spine, the top of your head and in different parts of your face. You should try gently tapping on the top of your head, your forehead, cheeks and chin before taking a deep breath.
Do not hesitate to pose questions as you receive a massage. No question is ever dumb, and your massage therapist should welcome any that you have. Your massage therapist’s goal is to make you relaxed and comfortable.
When you get a massage, request that the lights be dimmed. A darker room makes it more relaxing for you. You don’t have to be plunged in total darkness. A candle or two provides a nice touch.
Trigger point therapy, or neuromuscular therapy works best when the concentrated pressure is put on certain trigger points. You might have felt bumps or knots in your back before, these are trigger points that have become irritated. These little areas hurt quite a bit, and the pain may radiate throughout the body. The pain is reduced or eliminated when the tension is released by the pressure on the target muscle.
Let your massage therapist know if anything begins to hurt too much. Some massage techniques can cause some discomfort, so you need to be aware of that. Ask the therapist to ease up in certain areas if you find that you are beginning to tense up because something is too painful.
Scented oils can make a massage feel much better. Try to keep scents mild and natural, rather than strong and over powering. Use scents that are fruity or floral. Your clients will get the most benefit from the massage when they’re relaxed.
Be vocal with your massage therapist.Talking may be the last thing you really want to do during a massage, but it can be the difference between an ok experience and a great one. You need to let the therapist know what areas need work and what techniques work best.
Hydrate, hydrate. A massage loosens lymph fluid, lactic acid and other toxins from your soft tissues. This is part of what makes your muscles feel so nice afterward. However, if you are dehydrated, there is no way for these toxins to leave your system. This could leave you feeling sore and slightly nauseated after your massage, which defeats the whole effort and wastes money. So, make sure you drink up!
Don’t swear off using a massage therapist of the opposite sex. You may initially be weird about it, but get over it! Men may have the height and strength you need to work out the kinks from a really bad back, and women may have the relaxed touch you need to de-stress. Be open to whoever may best fit your current need.
Be sure to tip your massage therapist. Understand that massage therapists earn most of their money on tips, so they will be very appreciated. Usually a 15% tip on the total cost is a good guideline. You could even pay more if the masseuse did a wonderful job. You will also benefit from this if you go back to the same therapist. This way you can ensure that they give the best massage possible.
When you are going for a massage, make sure that you communicate with your therapist. Going to a massage therapist is similar to going to a doctor. Have any questions or concerns ready when you go to the appointment. Tell the therapist about any areas that need work, the type of massage you would like or ask any questions about different kinds of massages you may have heard about.
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.
There are many different types of massages that you can get. Can you get a deep tissue massage? Swedish massage? Hot stone massage? Each of these will elicit different sensations, altering your massage experience.
As promised at the beginning, you have now learned some fabulous ways to give a massage. Incorporate these tricks into your next massage experience. The person receiving it will be pleased at how effective your massages have become. Then, you can share your newly discovered skills with other people in your family.