Is stress a constant companion in your life? Are you in search of a good form of relaxation? Massages can help you take things easy. In the article below, you will find great information that will increase your knowledge of massages and get the most from them.

Do not allow yourself to worry about what your body looks like when you are getting a massage. Wear lightweight clothing so that your therapist has easy access to your muscles. Masseurs are trained on how to sheet-drape, so you will always have your most intimate parts covered while you receive your massage. You need to let go of your body issues to fully enjoy your massage.

Massage yourself when your muscles feel stiff. Begin by using the thumb on outside areas of the body. Begin on your legs, then your arms. If you massage this way after you awake in the morning, your body can be re-energized for the day’s challenges. A nighttime massage helps you relax and relieves stress.

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.

If your child is suffering from colic, a gentle massage may alleviate some of their suffering. Slightly warm some lavender baby lotion and gently massage your infants back, legs, hands and feet. This will help relax your child making them less fussy if they are suffering from stomach cramps caused by colic.

When you decide to get a massage, make sure you are communicating with your massage therapist. If you have any massage preferences, make sure you tell him or her when entering the room and before starting. If during the massage you are feeling pain or experiencing numbness, make sure you let your therapist know by speaking up.

Neuromuscular therapy (also called trigger-point) has to do with applying concentrated pressure to particular trigger points. Trigger points are irritated areas of muscle that feel like knots or lumps. These areas can be painful and also transfer the pain to other areas of your body. Muscles will relax when they have pressure applied to them, meaning the pain will diminish.

Finding the right therapist is very important when it comes to massages. You do not want to visit an inexperienced or inept therapist who may cause you more harm than good. Ask friends or family if they know of a good one in your area or look on the Internet for reviews.

Be on time, or a little early. Besides being good etiquette, being punctual can actually help your massage be effective. When you are running late, you are usually in a frenzied state, increasing stress levels and putting your body on edge. In a massage, this means it will take you longer to unwind and you may not get all of the benefits of a relaxing rub down.

When creams are going to be used for a massage, try out one that has a minty smell to it. Mint will not only soothe your skin but smells fresh and relaxing, exactly how you want people to feel while you give your massage. Always purchase high quality products so as to also provide moisture to the skin.

Don’t lie on a spa intake form! It is important that you list any medical issues or injuries you have experienced. This not only protects the spa from liability if you end up sick after the massage, but it allows them to determine exactly how the massage should be conducted for your health and safety.

Make sure you tell your masseuse about any old injuries you may have, or if you have had major surgery in the past. Your massage should feel wonderful and not exacerbate any physical issues you might have! Keep your masseuse in the loop about any medications you are taking, as well.

Rub your belly following a meal. Yes, you did just read that correctly. Digestion is aided by this technique. Just put your hands on your stomach, palms down, and rub in a clockwise motion. This matches the same direction food digests in the intestines naturally to stimulate digestion.

Always include a tip when you go for a massage. A masseuse is a service worker, so they make a majority of their living from tips. You should tip between 15% and 20% if you loved your massage. Otherwise, leave a little less.

You should not take a good message for granted. You are now armed with lots of helpful massage tips. Now all you need to do is to make use of these suggestions. Everyone will notice the new you!