I hear time and time again; “My wife never massages me,” or “My husband gives terrible massages.”
Now, of course, nothing beats the peaceful, quiet, relaxed atmosphere when you receive a professional massage, but here are some massage techniques you can do right at home!
1. The first technique is using your forearm. This is a great technique for massaging large muscles like the erector muscles in the back (the ones that support you), or hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves. (In the massage world, we call this spreading)
Using the lotion or oil of your choice, rub the lubricant onto your forearm and gently give pressure while stroking the arm up to the patient’s (or your wife’s) head.
Use long, gentle movements, almost like you’re trying to flatten their muscle.
2. The second technique is kneading aka petrissage. This works great for most muscles especially the arms, legs, and back. Just like it sounds; you are kneading the muscle like you would knead dough.
Rub your lotion or oil of choice on your hands, now don’t pinch the muscle, but gently grab it and work it like you’re kneading dough back and forth in your hands. Make sure you’re using your hands almost like lobster claws.
*Another tip is to always massage the muscles in the direction of the heart which helps with lymphatic drainage or excreting toxins.
3. The third technique is for those who love their feet massaged. Are you ready?
Make sure you have a clean foot, I would recommend using a lotion or gel for this. No one likes oily feet. I would start with one foot at a time.
If you would like to heat your feet up, wet a hand towel and put it in the microwave for about 30 seconds (or more depending on your heat preference), then wrap your feet in the towels for a minute or longer
Start by rubbing the lotion on the top and bottom of the foot, use your fingers to glide up and down the top of the foot.
Use a wringing motion like you’re wringing out a wet washcloth as you go down from the toes to the heel.
Next, use your knuckles to massage the heels in a circular motion, if you choose, you can use your thumbs here.
Don't forget your ankles and shins, use petrissage or kneading motion up the front and back of each leg.
Use your thumbs starting at the heel and go up gently, no digging, as you make your way up to the toes.
Gently pull the toes and provide a circular motion as you go from base to tip.
End with another hot towel and gently hold your foot, moving from heel to tip.
Repeat on the other foot.
Enjoy!
If you have questions email me at massagetherapybykate@yahoo.com
Take self-care!
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