Want to know how to give an excellent message? There are many different tips and tricks you should know that can make it seem like you’re a massage professional. This article will provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge.

If you decide to get a massage in the comfort of your own home, take a hot shower first. The hot water will help relax your muscles through the penetrating heat. This will ensure that your massage is more comfortable and any aches or pains are eliminated before the start.

Try getting a therapeutic massage. There has been proof that this type of massage can lower stress levels, help get rid of tension headaches caused by contracting muscles in the face, neck and head, and better the breathing of asthmatic children. It’s believed that is type of massage is so successful due to people believing in it so much, which creates a powerful mind and body connection.

Try to use all of your hands when you engage in your massage, including your thumbs. This is a strong tool you can use to help stimulate muscle therapy. Be careful not to dig your thumbs into their muscle, though.

Try giving yourself or someone a foot massage. Focusing on the soles first can really relax a person. Start stroking the soles of the foot going back and forth in straight lines. Do these motions starting from the heel to the bases of the toes. After the soles have been properly massaged, you can move on to the toes and the top and middle of the foot.

Make sure the person you give a massage to is comfortably installed. Ideally, you should use a massage table or at least a comfortable mat. If you do not have this equipment, have the person lay down on a comfortable couch or a supportive mattress. Make sure their head is properly supported.

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.

If your spa doesn’t offer a foot bath prior to your massage, give one to yourself. If your feet are dirty, it is possible that the germs can travel to other areas of your body during the massage. If you can’t bathe your feet, try to visit the bathroom prior to the appointment and give your feet a quick wash in the sink.

When you have a client that you are giving a massage to, ask whether or not they are comfortable. The last thing that you will want is someone who does not feel secure when you are giving a massage. Additionally, they will be very tight and tough to massage if they are anxious.

If you are a woman, don’t swear off men massage therapists. Since most women are modest, they often feel uncomfortable in front of a male massage therapist. However, some women have reported that the best massage they have gotten in a long time is from a male massage therapist. Whatever your decision, don’t just base it on the sex of the massage therapist.

You may find relief in massage therapy if you are a person who tends to catch every bug that’s going around. It’s proven that massages can stimulate white blood cell production. This is useful because white blood cells help your body fight off infection and viruses.

As you get deep into the massage, increase your speed. You massage slowly at first to loosen the muscles and allow the person to get used to your hands. Then, you can start to move faster to get knots out.

Finding the right therapist is very important when it comes to massages. You do not want to visit an inexperienced or inept therapist who may cause you more harm than good. Ask friends or family if they know of a good one in your area or look on the Internet for reviews.

If you suffer from medical conditions such as high blood pressure or are pregnant, speak up before getting your massage. In most cases, a massage will still be safe, but the technique will probably need to be adjusted. A professional massage therapist can help you get the relaxation you are seeking while remaining safe if you are willing to speak up.

Be considerate of your masseuse. Arrive at the massage table freshly washed! Make sure that you bathe yourself and take your time before going to an appointment. Not only will the masseuse be thankful, but you will also avoid your aroma while you’re being massaged.

If you are giving a deep tissue massage, incorporate your elbows into it. This may feel uncomfortable at first for the person you are massaging, but is a fantastic way of spreading out the muscle and causing a very pleasurable sensation. Never push too hard though, as this will then feel uncomfortable.

Rub your belly in a slow, clockwise pattern after any meal for best results. This is the direction that food will naturally follow as it enters your digestive system and begins to break down. This belly-rub will stimulate the digestion-process. Try this for yourself and notice the improvement within minutes.

You should massage your hands when you plan to moisturize the rest of your body. Start with your palms, uniting the fingers and rubbing together your palms in a circular movement. After this, rub the areas below the thumbs, again using small circles. Use your thumbs and index fingers to massage your palms, wrists, and fingers.

Use the tips you’ve read here to perfect your technique. Your friends will be pleasantly surprised when they experience your new found skills. As you use these techniques, you will gain the practical experience necessary to give great massages.