Massages are a relaxing and rejuvenating way to relieve stress, relieve pain, and improve overall health. But finding the best massage isn’t just about choosing a good therapist or location — it’s also about choosing the right massage technique and making sure you follow proper massage etiquette.
The best massages involve a combination of techniques that relax the muscles, stimulate blood flow, and decrease emotional tension. But giving a good massage requires practice, patience and the correct tools. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, here are some helpful tips to help you give the perfect massage:
Set up the room correctly.
It’s important to create a clean and quiet environment where you can provide a relaxing experience for your clients. Avoid rooms with cluttered or messy areas, like the bedroom where there’s a pile of laundry in the corner, or where children or pets could become agitated during a session.
Find a comfortable massage bed or spot on the floor where you can rest and rub your client’s body. A bed should be firm and padded, and the mattress should have enough cushion to allow your hands to glide smoothly over your client’s skin without rubbing them.
Apply a few drops of oil or lotion to the area you’re massaging before you begin. This prevents chafing and friction on the person’s skin, which can cause discomfort or pain. Special oils can be found in health and beauty stores, or you can make your own massage oil by mixing coconut oil with essential oils that you like, such as lavender or lemongrass.
Use even pressure.
It’s tempting to exert more pressure on parts of your client’s body that are tight or sore, but this can increase discomfort rather than relax the muscles. Instead, focus on the muscles that lie underneath the bones — the neck, shoulders, back, arms, and legs — and gently knead them with your hands.
Use steady, even strokes.
Often, people feel anxious or uncomfortable during their massages because they get the impression that you’re in a hurry, so it’s crucial to give the massage slowly and steadily. This ensures that you’re applying the appropriate pressure to each area and allowing your hands time to work deeper into the muscle tissue.
Ask for feedback during the massage.
Don’t hesitate to tell your massage therapist if you don’t like a particular part of the massage, or if you find that the massage is too slow or that you feel too much pressure. This will give them a chance to adjust their techniques and pressure according to your needs, which is always beneficial.
Take note of the temperature in the room and if you feel too cold or hot. Having a comfortable temperature is especially important during hot stone massage, where heated stones are used to relax the body.
Wear comfortable clothing, if you have it.
It’s a good idea to wear clothes that are comfortable and easy to move in, such as leggings or shorts. You can also ask the client if you can wear socks while you’re doing a massage, so that your fingers don’t get rubbed too hard.
Whole World Massage LLC
3509 Haworth Dr UNIT 205
Raleigh, NC 27609
www.worldmassage.com