Massage has benefits that are both psychological and physiological. Few people are aware of all the benefits of massage therapy. Continue reading below to get a better grasp of the ways in which proper massage can help individuals feel better both physically and mentally.
If you often experience chronic muscle pains, do some research on trigger points or find someone who can give you some information on neuromuscular therapy. Trigger points are tiny knots which happen when muscles become knotted. These triggering points can direct aches and other different symptoms to various areas of the body. A book on the subject or a trained massage therapist can educate you about how to use massage to rid yourself of these points.
A popular back massage you can try out on someone is called a “Raking Massage”. With this technique, you spread your fingers apart and use your tips to give the massage. Begin in the shoulder area and work your way down the back using a raking motion. Then, you move your fingers down the spine without actually touching it. Move one hand down as the other hand moves up.
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.
If you suffer from PMS each month with excessive water retention and cramping, there just might be some help for you. The power of massage has been shown to help reduce that unsightly water retention so that your pants will fit a little easier. It also can help relieve the pain that comes with cramps.
Your feet are a lot more sensitive than they look. You can find many nerve endings in this part of your body and massaging your feet could help you relieve the pain you experience in another part of your body. A foot massage is also a great way to relieve stress.
You can give yourself a foot massage by using a simple trick which is well known by athletes. You can roll over a tennis ball or a golf ball with your feet. You should move side to side with your feet and from front to back as well. Pay special attention to your arches, which are more sensitive than the rest of your feet.
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.
Increase the speed that you massage as you get deeper into it. You will need to start slowly so that the person you are massaging can relax and the muscles will start to lose tension. Then, you can start to move faster to get knots out.
Have the person you are massaging lie on a flat surface while on their stomach. This is the most beneficial position when you are giving a massage, as it allows their back muscles to stay loose while there is nothing pressing against it. You will want their position to be loose and free at all times.
If you enjoy working out, you should try massaging your muscles before and after exercising. You should pummel your muscles with your fists to improve your circulation before working out and massage your muscles more gently after working out to speed up the recovery process. Make sure you stretch after massaging.
Wake yourself up in the morning or calm yourself down at night with a good massage! To do this, gently thump your body with your fists. Begin at your legs and arms and go from bottom to top. This massage is great for relieving stress and tension. However, avoid this massage if you are currently taking any blood thinners because you could bruise your body.
When getting up from a massage, do so slowly. Roll to your right side and sit up slowly. Ask your massage therapist for a hand if you need it. Do not stand too quickly or move around the room too suddenly. You might feel dizzy after a massage, and taking this approach can help you to avoid slips and falls.
If you have a less than pleasant experience having a massage, try not to write them off completely. Everyone has their own style and techniques and no two massage therapists are the same. Ask for a recommendation from a friend for someone new, and explain your experience to them so they can do their best to make your massage with them as pleasant as possible.
Wear loose fitting clothing to your massage. Your masseuse will ask you to disrobe down to the level of your comfort, and so the last thing you want to do is struggle with multiple layers or tight clothing as you get ready for your massage! Many people wear workout clothing when they get a massage.
Your hands should be warmed prior to giving someone a massage. Cold hands provide an unpleasant sensation, making the recipient of the massage tense up. Rubbing your hands, using massage oil or lotion before you start, is all that is needed to begin with pleasantly warm hands.
A good massage is known for rejuvenating and relaxing an individual. You should learn more about massage therapy and practice the different techniques you learn about. With any luck, the article above has provided a great starting point.