Have you finally gotten to the point that you are ready for that well-deserved massage? Do you know exactly what you should be looking for when evaluating the local massage parlors in your area? It is common to be confused when you consider trying a massage. The following tips and advice will help you answer them, and much more.
If you consistently get pain in your muscles, get a book that discusses the body’s trigger point or have your massage therapist teach you all about neuromuscular therapy. Tight muscles are prone to small knots known as trigger points. These triggering points can direct aches and other different symptoms to various areas of the body. A book on trigger point therapy, or a skilled masseuse, can teach you how to massage these painful points away.
Feeling a little blue? Go get a massage! The health benefits of massage are numerous, and studies have shown that one of the benefits of massage is elevated serotonin. Serotonin is a neurochemical that makes us feel happy, yet lack of sleep, hormone fluctuations, gloomy weather and poor diets can lower your body’s natural serotonin stores.
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.
Start your massage at the top of the back. This is important as there are a lot of muscles and knots tied up in this area. This technique will help you to soothe the person you are massaging and serves as a great bridge to the other areas of the body.
One simple way to give a massage is to use a “raking” technique. This is done by spreading your fingers and using your fingertips. Start in the shoulder area then move your fingers in a raking motion down the back. Make sure the fingers move along the spine not on top of the spine. While one hand moves up move the other one down in alternating motion.
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.
Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor about massages. If you deal with back pains or muscle pains on a regular basis, ask your doctor if massages would be a good solution. Your doctor should be able to recommend a good massage clinic in your area and even write you a prescription.
When booking a massage treatment, choose a time which is easy for you to attend. You need to get there early, and you shouldn’t be in a rush to leave. Talk to them about their policy on cancellations to ensure you don’t get even more stressed out if you have to reschedule.
When you are giving a massage, one of the key points to focus on is constant movement. You should never stop abruptly, as this will ruin the flow of the massage. You can slow down and speed up while you rub your hands up and down the back and legs, but never come to a complete stop.
Make sure that your feet are taken care of if you are getting a massage. Take a proper shower or bath to get yourself cleaned up well before your massage appointment. Your masseuse will appreciate the effort.
Find out if your massage therapist gives incentives for referrals. Your massages could be low priced or free if you can refer others. This is especially useful if you are on a tight budget or need massages often in order to feel well.
When getting a massage, you need to fully relax as the therapist moves your body and joints. You do not need to try to help the therapist move your limbs and body. Think of it as being a puppet, with the therapist moving your body as they want and you just along for the ride.
Use massage to help fight poor circulation that can come with many illnesses. Massage will naturally increase the blood flow to problem areas, slowing the effects the poor circulation can have. The great thing is that it will likely be covered by your insurance as it is a treatment for a health condition.
You should have a better idea of how to find the ideal massage therapist. Massages are the key to a relaxed body and mind in a stressful world. As long as you use this advice, you’ll find great benefit from it.
