Though you may not realize it, your body can benefit greatly from being pampered at times. To live comfortably in a life free of aches and pains, getting a quality massage can do wonders. Use the ideas below to get down to business.
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.
You can make massages even better by using some massaging oils. There are plenty of different essential oils to choose from. Choose an oil with an enjoyable smell and you will find that massages are even more relaxing thanks to the smell of the essential oils and the properties of the oil you chose.
If your goal is to calm the massage recipient, use movements that are slow. If you move your hands too fast or generally attack the back, you’ll definitely not create a relaxing atmosphere! Instead focus on being calm yourself. Slow down your pace and move slowly but deliberately. Wait for cues from the massage recipient as to whether to speed up or slow down even more.
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.
Shiatsu Massages are of Japanese origin and they are similar to acupuncture, but fingers are used rather than needles. Your massage therapist will apply expert pressure at specific pressure points. This will result in automatic relaxation. This will help you have increased energy and happiness.
Tell your therapist where your problems lie. The point of a massage is to get your muscles to relax and to target problem areas. Your therapist will need to know what areas to work the hardest.
Communicate with your massage therapist. Your masseuse is most likely not a mind reader, so let them know if an area of your body needs a little extra attention. Whether your shoulders are a mess from being hunched over a desk or your legs are sore from a marathon workout, speak up.
Speak up about potential medical issues. If you suffer from an illness that could be aggravated by a massage or if you are pregnant, say something. Your masseuse will be able to adjust their technique to give you a great massage that works around your ailment and keeps you safe.
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.
Give your masseuse a tip. Tips are suggested in this business. A standard tip is about 15%, but you can always leave more based on exceptional service, or nothing if had to suffer through the experience. If you are particularly impressed by your massage therapist, feel free to leave a larger tip. You’ll be glad you tipped the next time you return to your massage therapist. It will mean that you’ll get their best at your next visit.
If you find that you rely on pain medication more than you should, think about getting more massages. Massages help relax aching joints and muscles. Talk to your insurance company because getting a regular massage may actually be covered on your plan if it relates to any health problems you have.
A hot stone massage incorporates heated stones and a gentle touch. Smooth stones are heated and placed along the back and other parts of the body to relieve muscle tension. The massage therapist may also gently press the stones into your tense muscles and then gently rub them in a circular motion to help relieve tension.
If you are on the giving end of a very beneficial massage, make sure to read the signs the recipient is showing. During a deep-tissue massage, the body responds to pressure and muscles will actually contract under your finger-tips. Ease up on the pressure when you approach bones and joints and be guided by the response you get!
With the information here, you could give yourself an excellent massage if you could only reach! Do not hesitate to talk about what you learned with your massage therapist during your next appointment. Taking care of your body will help you to live a long healthy life.
