Do you enjoy massages? Massages are relaxing and help to melt your stress away, but can be on the expensive side. Most of the time you have to go to an expensive spa to get a good quality massage. This article will teach you how to get a great message without wasting too much money.

Hydrate yourself well for forty-eight hours before your massage. Many people know that heavy water intake after a massage is good for flushing the body of toxins and helping with sore muscles. Drinking plenty of water before the massage will greatly increase the impact of the massage and its purging abilities.

If your child suffers from asthma, consider massage. Massage has been proven to help breathing in asthmatic children due to the relaxing benefits it offers. A child’s massage should be done with a gentle touch and only for a limited period of time. Try this in the evening and help your child to also enjoy a good night’s rest.

You should try using olive oil or almond oil for your massages. Oils will be absorbed by the skin much better than lotions and gels will be. Oils also allow the hands to glide over the skin better than lotions or gels.

A popular back massage you can try out on someone is called a “Raking Massage”. With this technique, you spread your fingers apart and use your tips to give the massage. Begin in the shoulder area and work your way down the back using a raking motion. Then, you move your fingers down the spine without actually touching it. Move one hand down as the other hand moves up.

If you notice knots in the back while you are giving a massage, you can kneed them out with some pressure from your fists. Simply get your fists into a ball and work them over the knotted spot for a few minutes. Apply more pressure if the knots are deeper, as long as the recipient remains comfortable.

If you will be getting a massage to have some stress relieved, go with an aromatherapy massage. Along with a massage, the therapist will use essential oils on your capillaries in order to relax the body. Most of these oils come from flowers, roots, and herbs and are completely safe.

If you suffer from PMS each month with excessive water retention and cramping, there just might be some help for you. The power of massage has been shown to help reduce that unsightly water retention so that your pants will fit a little easier. It also can help relieve the pain that comes with cramps.

The perfect scent can really improve a massage. Try to keep scents mild and natural, rather than strong and over powering. Stay away from medicinal scents, instead opting for fruity and floral smells. This helps the patient get comfortable and relaxed and feel as if they are in a dream.

Be vocal with your massage therapist.Talking may be the last thing you really want to do during a massage, but it can be the difference between an ok experience and a great one. You need to let the therapist know what areas need work and what techniques work best.

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.

Don’t be afraid to speak up if you are getting a sports or deep tissue massage. Although closing your eyes in order to relax is completely normal, you shouldn’t hesitate to let your massage therapist know if you experience any discomfort during your massage. The masseuse has to know what is happening in your body so you don’t get an injury.

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.

Massage can help you kick a pain killer habit. Massage therapy is great for healing injuries and common ailments. Check with your insurance as they may cover visits to a masseuse if it’s directly related to health issues.

Remain still immediately following the massage. Your body isn’t used to massages. When you stand up fast, your body may react. You may feel faint or a little nauseous. Take a few minutes to get your bearings before standing up straight.

When you are stumped for what to give as a Christmas or birthday present, consider buying a coupon for a healthy massage! Everybody loves the soothing and relaxing benefits of a deep tissue massage and who couldn’t use the extra pampering? Especially for the person who has everything, the gift of massage is perfect!

If you are unsure of which massage therapist to see in your area, ask your family members and coworkers. Referrals are crucial. While they don’t ensure that you will get a great therapist, they do increase your odds tremendously. After you get a few names, do your own research to see which person you think best fits your needs.

A good massage shouldn’t cost a lot of money. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get the benefits from a wonderful massage. Now you can give or get a great massage.