A massage can do wonders for a person who is filled with stress. There is something about human contact that is wonderfully therapeutic. Receiving a massage can help to relax and rejuvenate a body that has been run ragged. It can help you to sleep better, and it also helps to circulate your blood better.
Giving a massage can also help you to relax. The physical contact and repetitive motion has great benefits for both parties.
Unfortunately, we can’t all afford massages when we are stressed. A massage at a day spa can get pretty expensive. Fortunately, you have an alternative: home massages. You don’t have to worry about getting certified or spending $100 at a fancy spa to have some extra relaxation in your life.
Getting Started
Before you start giving massages left and right, you will likely want to know how to get started. There are certain steps you can take to help with the atmosphere during the massage. Doing it at home doesn’t mean you need to skimp on the extra stuff.
Comfortable location: For an at-home massage, you can use a bed, a couch, a mat, or the floor. The key is finding a semi-soft surface where you both feel comfortable. Lay down a towel beneath the person receiving the massage. Keep a towel or blanket nearby in case they get cold.
Make it smell good: There are certain smells that will instantly help anyone to relax. Try using essential oils such as lavender or chamomile, as well as incense.
The Massage
Giving a massage isn’t very difficult, but you do need to know what you are doing if you want to be effective.
Here are a few suggestions on how to give professional at-home massages. Of course, there are a variety of things you can try, so don’t consider this to be an all-inclusive list.
- Have the person to whom you are giving the massage lie face down. Make sure you have sufficient oil to help your hands move smoothly.
- You will want to start at the bottom of the back and move up along the spine. Use broad strokes and avoid massaging right on the spine.
- Once you reach the top, start at the bottom again using just your fingertips. Move up the curve of the back, keeping your fingertips together; do this several times with increasing pressure.
Reminders
Be sure to never massage directly on the spine. You only want to use the spine as a reference point when moving up and down the back.
Be sure that the person you are massaging is in good health. Avoid at-home massages if either person has an infection, a fever, or any current heart problems.
Remember to have the receiver of the massage drink plenty of water after the session is done. This will help to remove toxins that his or her body expelled during the session.
Author James Davidson writes on a variety of health related topics. He usually favors alternative medicine subjects and often writes for a Tallahassee chiropractor blog.