How To Give a Back Massage
Nothing beats a soothing back massage after a stressful day in the office or exercising. This type of massage is ideal for those who would like to increase blood flow to the muscles and skin. It can also ease stiffness and pain especially after participating in a strenuous activity.
If you’d like to emulate your favorite massage therapist and give your friend or special someone a back massage, here are some basic techniques you can use.
Prepare your back massage pack.
Before giving anyone a back massage you should make sure that the following things are all within reach:
Basin containing warm water
Towels
Washcloths
Soap
Body lotion
Disposable gloves (if the individual to be massaged has open sores or any related skin disease)
Make the person relax.
Adjust the temperature of the room and make sure that it is warm and comfortable enough for the both of you. After these preparations, help the person to rest on his stomach or sides. The position should allow him to breathe easily. Place pillows strategically for support: between the legs, under the stomach, and anywhere else comfortable. Keep only the person’s back uncovered and keep everything else covered for comfort and privacy.
Give the perfect back massage.
back massageBefore giving any back massage, make sure that your fingernails are well-trimmed to avoid inflicting any injuries. You can also wash the person’s back first using a washcloth and warm water. Wet the washcloth and start washing his back, neck, all the way to the butt area. Rinse properly. Pat dry the skin to ensure that there’s no skin irritation.
Stay close to the bed with one leg slightly bent forward. Use a small amount of lotion as you begin to guide your hands to help the person relax.
Massage the buttocks and the back area nearby. Make sure the direction of your hands is upwards on both areas of the spine and the rest of your shoulders. Create a circular motion when massaging the upper part of the back and use your thumbs to press harder when making circles.
Go to the shoulder area and go down the upper area of the arms. Make sure that there is minimum pressure as you go down the back area.
Regularly ask the person if he or she feels any pain on the body part being massaged. Avoid massaging areas where pain is felt, or just massage gently.
You may not be a massage therapist, but you can certainly provide comfort and relief with the right practice and application of the correct techniques.