Massage has long been something that millions of people have enjoyed and millions more have wanted to learn more about. Given the voluminous information available on the topic, it can be difficult to sort the good material from the bad. Fortunately, by reading the article that follows, you can gain a proper understanding of some of the most important elements of massage.
Change your mindset about massage. Instead of thinking of it as a luxury, think of massage as a therapeutic approach to health. Research shows that massage can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as lessening asthma symptoms in children. Additionally, those tension headaches are no match for the hands of a skilled massage therapist.
When giving a massage, make sure that you use the right amount of pressure. It is a delicate balance between using too much pressure and not enough. Take some time to practice. Ask the person you are giving the massage to if you are using too much or too little. Their feedback should dictate the amount of pressure you use.
Regulate your breathing during a massage. It is not uncommon to feel apprehension or anxiety during a massage, particularly if you are new to receiving them. Remember that you are in a safe environment and dealing with a professional. You will not be able to relax if your breathing is not normal.
Ease your aching feet! Your feet are under pressure all day long and are often ignored when it comes to a healing massage. Massage your toes, gently stretching them out until they feel relaxed. Use your thumbs to put pressure on the sole of your foot, slowly moving from the toes to the heel. For feet that are particularly achy you can apply more pressure by kneading the sole with your knuckles. Finally, treat your tired feet with a rich moisturizer.
If you suffer from sinus pressure, use massage to help. A simple and quick massage under your brow line can help to clear your sinuses and make breathing much easier. Just use your fingers to massage gently over the eyes and across the bridge of your nose. This only takes minutes, and it can offer you a lot of relief.
If the lights are not dimmed when you go for your massage, request this. Your massage should be relaxing, and the dark can help get you there. The room does not have to be completely dark, but it should be no brighter than it would be if the light was provided by candles.
The light and gentle massage technique is often referred to as Swedish. It helps increase circulation and relax your partner. This type of massage is also excellent for athletes who have muscle fatigue. You must be careful with this type of massage and listen to your partner. They could have injuries and if the massage is painful, you need to stop.
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.
Before you give a massage, stretch all of the areas that you are planning to use. This means that you will need to stretch your fingers, arms, neck, back and legs so that you can reduce cramps during your massage and get all areas involved. If you are providing a long massage session, stretching is imperative.
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.
As the massage progresses, increase your speed. It’s a good idea to start out at a slower speed so that the recipient has time to get used to the massage and help relax them. Eventually, you will be able to give more pressure and do it more quickly.
Did you know you have great self-massage tools around the house? Why not lie on a tennis ball for a sore spot on your back? A rolling pin is great for the bottom of your feet. Walk around your house and you may be surprised by all the great tools you find!
The art of massage is a complex topic, but also one of great interest to many. The key to acquiring a good understanding of what massage has the capacity to do for countless individuals is getting your hands on the right information. The article above should serve as a useful reference as you continue your quest for greater understanding of the subject of massage.
