A massage can leave you feeling great for quite a while. However, sometimes a great massage cannot happen for one of many reasons. Sometimes a little knowledge can go a long way, especially when it comes to getting a fantastic massage. Continue reading to learn more about massage.
Massage is great during pregnancy, but wait until after the first trimester. During the first trimester, your baby is in the earliest stages of development. Toxins released during a massage can harm the fetus or inhibit growth during this delicate period. Once you have reached 16 weeks, you should be all clear to enjoy a massage.
Are you prone to muscle cramps either brought on by physical activity or sometimes nothing at all? These can be very painful, especially when they are in your calf. Massages can help to prevent your muscles from cramping up by promoting blood flow. You can also massage the area as soon as you feel it beginning to cramp up for some quick relief.
Dispose of any anxiety when getting massages. You need to have less clothing on so that your massage therapist can reach all parts of your body that need to be massaged. Massage therapists know how to skillfully drape sheets so that you stay covered. Just relax and trust them.
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.
You can do simple self-massages to iron out kinks. Begin by using the thumb on outside areas of the body. Massage the feet and legs and the hands and arms. Work toward the center of your torso. If you do this massage upon waking in the morning, you will find yourself rejuvenated and ready for your day. If you perform it before bed, you can reduce your stress levels and calm yourself for a restful night’s sleep.
Swedish massage therapy is the most frequently offered type available. Some people consider this to just be a basic massage. The strokes are long and smooth, done in a kneading motion, typically in circles. The masseuse will normally use oil during the process. It is not too rigorous and quite enjoyable.
Ask for the lights to be dimmed during your massage. A dark room will enhance the relaxing environment you want to experience during a massage. The room need not be totally dark, but the lighting should be similar to that provided by candles.
What should one use for a self-massage? Whatever you can use! If you’re massaging a knot out of your thigh, why not use your elbow? Is your neck sore? Fingers will do, but you can also buy a massaging neck roller. Try out different items and body parts and see what works for you.
What place is the best to rub when you’re massaging yourself? Where it hurts the most! Find the areas that are painful and slowly move your hands outward around these areas. If during the process you discover other painful spots, work those out too. If you feel release, you can end the massage.
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.
Extend the benefits of your massage by taking things easy for the rest of the day. Allow your mind and body to stay in the relaxed zone by practicing deep breathing throughout the day whenever you feel the tension returning. Plan a low-key, relaxing dinner followed by a warm bath, then get into bed early and curl up for a nice, restorative night of sleep
Listen to your massage therapist and follow any professional directions they give you. They are the experts after all. As long as this person is being professional, trust that they know what is best. This includes any requests before and immediately following a massage. There may be things you need to do to make sure your muscles respond well.
Doing eye massages can relieve tired and sore eyes. The main benefit of this massage is using warmth to relieve pain and strain. Begin this massage by rubbing your hands together vigorously. Do this until your hands start to feel warm. When hands are warm, cover each eye with a palm until the warmth goes away.
Aromatherapy massage uses scented therapeutic massage oils along with gentle kneading motions. These scented oils add another dimension to the standard massage by incorporating the sense of smell into the massage therapy. Aromatherapy often uses lavender, eucalyptus and chamomile. This type of massage is perfect for people suffering for stress related pain.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you have to spend a lot of money to get a good massage. Meanwhile, it is human nature to choose well known spas, a smaller center or a massage school can offer the same services. Sometimes lesser known places offer better massages than their more expensive counterparts, for half the price.
Drink plenty of water before and after your massage. Drinking before your massage session ensures that your muscles are well-hydrated and supple, making the massage more effective. Water after your massage will flush out the toxins that were released and can even help prevent soreness by hastening muscle recovery time.
Now that this article has ended, is easy to see how a massage experience is within grasp. Take what you’ve just learned to heart, and start implementing these tips. In no time you will be giving and receiving the perfect massage that will refresh and relax your body.
