A massage is one of the best ways to relax, repair sore muscles, and obtain numerous other health benefits. While no one can really duplicate the hands and technique of a professional massage artist, you can give your partner a massage that at least helps to relax him or her, not to mention scoring you some points, at essentially no cost to yourself. Here are some tips on how to give a great massage.
If you’re not using oil, the only “tool” you’re using to give a massage is your hands. Make sure that your hands are clean, including under the fingernails, and that they are smooth as well. Use some moisturizer on your hands if you have to. Rough hands can change what should be a great massage into an awful one if you try rubbing hands that have the texture of sandpaper on your partner’s back.
Now that your hands are ready, you need to create an atmosphere for the massage. Find a place where you won’t be disturbed and your partner will be comfortable laying down for a little bit. If one of you prefers, you can use scented oils or candles while you are doing the massage.
When you start doing the massage there’s three basic things you have to know. First, be aware of your partner’s body. Take note of how they react when you touch certain areas in certain ways. Your partner’s body will give you feedback on what you’re doing right and what you’re doing wrong. Also make sure to always keep a hand on your partner’s back. This way you startle him or her by taking your hands off and then putting them back on their back when they aren’t expecting it. Finally, when you’re giving the massage you never can go wrong with circular motions and gentle pressure on any parts of the body.
When you are giving the massage, you should try to focus on the neck and shoulders along with whatever other body parts your partner says are sore or stiff. The neck and shoulders are where most people carry their tension, so they almost always need a decent rub down. To loosen them up, use both hands and apply pressure to the upper back and push it through the shoulders to the neck then gently pinch the trapezius muscles, the muscles at the top of your shoulders. If you’re working on the back, apply gentle pressure and massage in circles from the lower back to the upper back. Finally, if you’re working on the arms or legs always make sure the massage toward the heart, using the same circular motions as earlier.
Being able to give your partner a great massage will not only put them in a better mood and give them some health benefits, but it will also score you some serious brownie points. If you follow the tips in this article you will be well on your way to becoming a great home massage artist.