Massages are truly enjoyable. Letting go of your tension can improve your physical and emotional well-being. Keep reading to find out more about massages.

Feeling a little blue? Go get a massage! The health benefits of massage are numerous, and studies have shown that one of the benefits of massage is elevated serotonin. Serotonin is a neurochemical that makes us feel happy, yet lack of sleep, hormone fluctuations, gloomy weather and poor diets can lower your body’s natural serotonin stores.

Massages differ from person to person. If you see that a certain area is giving off a positive response, stay in that area during the massage. Always keep an eye out for feedback, both positive and negative.

When giving a massage, it is very important that you use oil or lotion. Massage oils can increase the movements of the soft tissue. Using oil will minimize the pinching and tugging feel on the skin. Massage oils come in all different varieties. They include aromatherapy and provide lubrication and nutrients.

One of the best things that you can do before and after your massage is to drink a lot of water. Water will help to eliminate some of the free radicals that are in your body, which may be causing your discomfort in the first place. This will optimize your overall experience.

When you are giving a massage, try not to use the same stroke over and over. This can make the whole experience mundane, as you want to incorporate as much change during the session as possible. Alter your technique, the stroke and how hard you press on the back, neck and thighs.

Consult with your masseuse before the massage. Knowing what will happen during the session will help you to relax. This is also an opportunity for you to discuss any allergies or concerns you may have with products used during the massage. Ask for music if you like, or anything else that will increase your comfort level.

Try to stay quiet when giving a massage. Massages are relaxing and if you speak it can break the mood. Play quiet music or even some sounds of nature. Otherwise, keep the peace and quiet going.

If you are planning on a massage of your entire body, make sure your feet are thoroughly cleaned ahead of time. You never know what type of bacteria or fungus is residing there, and the massage therapist can inadvertently transfer that to other parts of your body. You’ll be glad you cleaned your feet once the massage is over.

Athletes are likely familiar with sports massage. This can also be used by those that exercise a lot. These massages help to avoid injuries and fix existing ones.

When someone is giving you a massage, be bold and speak up. If you feel that a particular area of your body needs focus, let him or her know. If your massage therapist isn’t being intense enough, or they are being too intense, let them know so that they can adjust.

If you are pregnant and getting a massage, avoid massage tables which have holes in them. This will ensure yours and the baby’s comfort and prevent the stress to your lower back. Also, make sure you use plenty of pillows as additional padding in order to feel more comfortable and secure.

If you are on the giving end of a very beneficial massage, make sure to read the signs the recipient is showing. During a deep-tissue massage, the body responds to pressure and muscles will actually contract under your finger-tips. Ease up on the pressure when you approach bones and joints and be guided by the response you get!

Before and after you exercise, you should give your body a good massage. Before you exercise, use your fists in a pummeling motion to stimulate blood flow to your arms and legs. After you exercise, rub your muscles with your fist or palm. Move along your heart’s direction. This helps to speed up your recovery and aids in waste removal.

When it comes to lower back pain, massage therapy is very effective and can bring helpful relief to an individual that is suffering from this affliction. Almost fifty percent of health care providers recommend therapeutic massage for patients that are suffering from lower back pain. Combined with other medical treatments, massage therapy gives many people relief from debilitating back pains.

If you are thinking about finding a massage therapist, ask your doctor for a recommendation. Often, your doctor will be able to refer you to an excellent professional from their years of experience in dealing with health problems. You might also ask a trainer at your gym to refer you to an excellent massage therapist.

You can use soft music when preparing to give a good massage. Music tends to relax the recipient of the massage. This type of mental prep work helps release muscle tension. As your hands skillfully loosen up the muscles, this will make your massage more effective.

Look online for reviews of potential massage therapists. There are most likely reviews for the clinics and the therapists online. Once you know the opinion of others regarding their services, you can make a list of a few of the most reputable professionals to consider.

Now that you’ve read this article, you have learned enough information to formulate an opinion about massages. Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of receiving a massage. If massages are something you enjoy, treat yourself to one; you’ll feel like a new person.