Giving a massage

A guide to giving a relaxing massage.

We live in a fast-paced world full of pressure and stress, and massage therapy is a popular way to relax the body and mind as well as loosen tight, achy muscles and joints. In order to get a professional body massage, you can make an appointment with a certified massage therapist in your area. These visits are expensive, though, and arenot generally covered by most health insurance plans.

Your alternative choice is to learn the basics of how to give a relaxing body massage. Then, if you use your newfound skills to relax your spouse or significant other with a warm hand massage, he or she may be more than happy to reciprocate the favor!

First, the person being given the massage, whom we shall refer to as being the "patient", should lie face-down ona smooth, flat surface. The surface should be hard, not soft like a bed, yet comfortable to the patient.

The massager should be equipped with a good body oil, especially the type used in aromatherapy practices. There are many suitable oils available on the market today, and are easy to find in your local health food stores as well as in some drug stores. Lavender and Chamomile, for example, are two popular fragrances known for their relaxing qualities.

First, start by applying a small amount of oil in the palm of your hand. Gently rub both hands together and warm the oil with your body heat. (Note-Before beginning each step of the massage, you should use a small amount of oil for each area of the body.) The oil has aromatherapy properties and it also reduces the friction between your hands and the patient's skin.) Next, starting at the neck and the shoulders, gently apply the massage oil and rub the neck muscles in an up and down motion. Apply just enough pressure to relax the muscles. Do not press down or rub too hard. After a few minutes, change the motion of the hands and fingers to a circular motion. Make sure to cover all areas of the neck.