If you\’ve never had a massage, you don\’t know what you\’re missing. Massage is an art form that eludes many people due to the mystery that surrounds the topic. A good massage can take place in a professional setting or in the comfort of your own home. Find out more below.

Let your masseuse know of your music preferences. Many people enjoy relaxing music playing during their massage, however some do not. If you prefer a quiet environment while you get your massage, speak up. You can also specify a particular type of music or even request ambient noise such as bird songs or ocean waves.

Those who suffer from diabetes can really benefit from having a massage. Diabetics tend to have a problem with circulation and blood flow in their feet, lower legs and hands. This is because they are the furthest away from the heart. Massaging the upper arms and legs can really help to get the blood flowing and circulating much better.

The oil that you use during a massage is going to enhance the experience. Use a lavender oil to promote relaxation. Use patchouli, jasmine or sandalwood oils for a more intimate massage. And if you want a warming oil, you can use ginger oil that will create heat to the touch.

If you sit at a computer all day, ease your neck pain by an hourly massage. Just interlock your fingers behind your head and slip your hands over your neck. Using the heels of your hands, knead both sides of your neck until the tension releases and you can get back to work.

Don\’t swear off using a massage therapist of the opposite sex. You may initially be weird about it, but get over it! Men may have the height and strength you need to work out the kinks from a really bad back, and women may have the relaxed touch you need to de-stress. Be open to whoever may best fit your current need.

Did you know you have great self-massage tools around the house? Why not lie on a tennis ball for a sore spot on your back? A rolling pin is great for the bottom of your feet. Walk around your house and you may be surprised by all the great tools you find!

A great massage technique for reliving shoulder pressure is providing yourself with a bear hug. To do this, put the right hand on the left shoulder and the left hand on the right shoulder. Tightly press on each shoulder and release. Do this three times. Finally, begin to work your hands down your arms squeezing and then letting go until you get to your wrists.

If you want to give your partner a great massage, think about doing some research before hand. Look to various books and websites to learn some of the basic massage techniques. Some aspects of giving a massage are through feel, but the standard techniques are very helpful for giving the best massage possible.

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 spend most of your day sitting in front of a computer, you should take frequent breaks so you can massage your neck. Place your fingers at the base of your skull and squeeze your muscles gently. Stretch your muscles by tilting your head to the side before massaging your muscles some more.

Think about taking a massage class yourself. If you have found massage to be beneficial to your life, why not learn to do it yourself? You can\’t give yourself massages all the time, but you can share this wonderful touch therapy with others. And when you learn more about it, you can understand why it works so well for you.

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.

If you are giving a romantic massage to your partner, consider lighting the room with candles. Candles provide just the right amount of light so you can see what you are doing, while still allowing your partner to relax. They are also very romantic, and they can lend to the feeling you are trying to create in the moment.

Use a massage oil to reduce friction. While baby oil is a popular choice, you may find that a light natural oil is preferable. Apricot seed and sunflower oils are great choices that will benefit skin health as well. Warm the oil between your hands before applying it to your partner.

It\’s a good idea to add massage to any course of treatment. Massage is great therapy for relaxation and general improvement of health. It has been proven that regular massage can help children with asthma regulate and train their breathing patterns. Additionally, massage can help reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels in the blood stream.

If the atmosphere in the massage room isn\’t to your liking, ask for some changes. If you don\’t like the products being used, see if there is an alternative option. Don\’t be afraid to talk to your therapist and tell them your needs. They should be more than willing to accommodate you in any way they can.

Now that you\’ve read this entire article, you know some things about massage. You are ready to put into practice what you\’ve just learned and take advantage of the wonderful things massage has to offer. Whether you partake outside the home or never leave it, massage is sure to enhance your life.