How to Give the Best Massage
If you want to surprise your significant other or want to help people feel less stressed out, then you might have considered giving them a massage. But the art of massage requires patience, technique and lots and lots of practice.
There are plenty of easy techniques that will help you be an accomplished masseuse in time. You can also move on to more complex techniques once you have mastered the easy ones. You can also follow different workshops, if you want to take things to another level.
Massage Oils and Scented Lotions
These are the most important tools that you can’t do without when it comes to giving someone a massage. There are many massage oils you can choose from. If your friend has a sensitive skin, choose dermatologically tested lotions or massage oils. If your partner loves a certain fragrance or scent, you can easily find a scented lotion that will definitely create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing massage.
Location, Location, Location
Giving the best massage has a lot to do with location. Always start at the lower back and work up. The biggest tension can be felt in someone’s shoulders and back of the neck. Always have comfortable pillows lying around, too. They help tremendously.
Adjust Your Style…
Depending on the person. Some like it when you apply pressure while others like a simple, soft massage.
Knead the Muscles
All practitioners believe that kneading the muscles in order to feel the knots is very important.
The Right Music
The right music can make a difference. Chillout music or Buddha Bar compilations can work wonders. So does any typical nature sound. It’s up to you to decide which option suits your purpose best.
The Right Touch
Use both hands when you’re offering a massage. Massage the person’s arms and fingers, too. Start from the lower back or legs then move till you reach the neck and the shoulders. The neck is usually the area where a lot of tension seems to build up. Place the oil or lotion in the palm of your hands first and warm it up a bit before rubbing it on your friend’s back. Start spreading the oil around using long strokes.
The Alternatives
The most comfortable and appropriate place for a massage is the massage table. If you don’t have one, you can certainly improvise. A couch, a kitchen table, the bed (even the floor) can help you out. Make sure the table you’re choosing is sturdy enough. A lot of accidents can happen if you’re not careful.
Dim the Lights
This can also contribute to a person’s good mood. Dim the lights, put some sheets on the table and ask the person to lie down and enjoy the massage.
Aromatherapy
You can even have a spa session in the comfort of your house. Use aromatherapy candles and bubble baths to create a center of relaxation for your friend or partner. After a hard day’s work, everybody deserves some spa time.