Performing a massage at home can be a rewarding experience for both parties. You only need minimal supplies and a few techniques. This article has some great tips and tricks to get you started. Continue reading to discover how to give fantastic massages to all of your friends and family.

An easy way to give a relaxing massage is by using a technique called “raking”. In it, you just run your fingertips (spread hands) down the person’s back, gently moving back and forth. Really, you’re doing a raking motion up and down. For added effect, try alternating your hands – one rakes up while the other rakes down.

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.

After you have had a massage, it is very important to drink plenty of water. You will be sore because of the toxins that have been released into your system by the massage. If you drink water right after the massage, you can flush these toxins out of your system more quickly.

Try not to exceed 45 minutes when you are giving a massage. Remember that you are pressing down on someone’s body for a long period of time when you are massaging. Therefore, if you do it for too long you can actually cause bruising and pain, which you will want to avoid.

It’s important to remember the hands and feet during a massage. These sensitive areas can make a massage very enjoyable. This is a good place to firm up your work, loosing up overworked muscles.

Listen to your massage therapist and follow any professional directions they give you. They are the experts after all. As long as this person is being professional, trust that they know what is best. This includes any requests before and immediately following a massage. There may be things you need to do to make sure your muscles respond well.

Your hands should be reading body contours as you give a massage. Work out the palm and fingers of your hand. Anytime you rub someone’s bony areas, only apply a small amount of pressure with your hand so that you prevent pain. When the area you are working becomes slightly more curved, utilize the tips of your fingers for precision.

Mint is a key ingredient to look for in massage lotions. Mint is soothing and relaxing and smells fresh, which will help the massage to accomplish its purpose. You can buy quality products that will always keep the skin moisturized.

Make sure you tell your masseuse about any old injuries you may have, or if you have had major surgery in the past. Your massage should feel wonderful and not exacerbate any physical issues you might have! Keep your masseuse in the loop about any medications you are taking, as well.

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.

When it comes to lower back pain, massage therapy is very effective and can bring helpful relief to an individual that is suffering from this affliction. Almost fifty percent of health care providers recommend therapeutic massage for patients that are suffering from lower back pain. Combined with other medical treatments, massage therapy gives many people relief from debilitating back pains.

You may already know that it is customary to tip your masseuse. If you are new to this, tipping 15% to 20% is customary. The only time you shouldn’t think about tipping is if you are getting physical therapy treatments at a medical facility. Never hand your masseuse a wad of cash, leave it at the front desk with the clerk.

Let your massage preferences be known. Massage therapists might apply too much or too little pressure; it’s up to you to let them know what works best in your case. You’ve spent your hard earned money on a relaxing and rejuvenating massage, so don’t be afraid to speak up and have it your way.

When you receive a massage, remember to tip your masseuse. Massage therapists are service workers, meaning they make the majority of their money from tips. The general rule of thumb is to tip between 15 and 20 percent if you are really satisfied with your service and a little less when not.

As you can see, giving a home massage does not take a lot of special equipment or skills. Implement the suggestions you have just read and watch the quality of your massages improve dramatically. You will amaze those people lucky enough to benefit from your newly discovered massage skills.

Going For A Massage? Read This First! was originally published on Spring