If you want to know how to give a great full body
massage, keep reading…You need to make sure you create a relaxing ambiance. Dim
the lights, light up some scented candles and turn on a little soft music.
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| Photo: Body Massage | InStyleHealth |
Bring in a couple of sheets or soft towels, one for
your workspace and one to cover your client. This is important because once the
skin is massaged, it causes blood flow into that area and that blood flow in
turn, will warm the skin.
In order to avoid a chill on the skin after massaging
the muscle group you need to cover up the areas. Working on muscles, causes all
sorts of chemicals to be released into the body. Have some water on hand,
because many people feel thirsty after a massage.
Make sure to only massage the muscles, therefore no
stretching of the skin. Remember that massages are for muscles below the skin
and not for the skin itself. Massage the large muscle groups of the body which
are basically the neck, back, shoulders and legs. This way, aside from
massaging correctly, you’re getting at the areas that store tension in the
body.
Using firm and even pressure, not too hard or
forceful, is good for the whole body. Pressure that is too light or
inconsistent, can be as uncomfortable as too much pressure so be sure to use an
even degree of pressure applied during the massage.
Always use a lubricant, like a massage oil or
essential oil, because this can help to prepare and protect the skin at the
same time. Start the full body massage at the shoulders by kneading the muscles
and gently pulling them towards you.
Work across the shoulders to the neck using your
thumbs and the tips of your fingers to work from the muscles, across and down
the upper back. Watch your nails to avoid scratching your client or subject.
Work down each arm separately finding the muscle
groups in the front and back and kneading them gently. When you get to the
hands, use your thumbs to work the palms. Don’t forget the other arm.
Return to the upper back and work downwards to the
middle of the back using your thumbs and fingertips to work from the center out
and pushing upward. Continue working down the back to the hips. Massage the
muscles of the upper thighs and down the back of the legs to the calves
spending time kneading each one separately with both hands.
Move to the foot, start with the heel and hold it
firmly while pushing up toward the leg, then down and side-to-side. Work your
thumbs on the underside of the foot with deep slow pressure and also the balls
of the feet and in between the toes.
So, there you go, if it so happens that your client
fell asleep then you did an awesome job…