How to give a great oil massage at home
Oil massages recharge and rejuvenate the mind and body. The oils used in these massages themselves are soothing and restorative as well. Essential oils are commonly used in massage because the scents stimulate the senses and encourage total mind and body relaxation. Oil massages also reduce stress, heal knotted muscles and improve blood circulation to various areas of the body. Although massage therapists are great resources for these oil massages, you can also perform them at home by following the steps below.
Choose the Massage Area
The first step to an oil massage at home is to choose which body part to focus on. If you choose to massage your legs or arms, you can probably massage the area yourself. However, if your back or scalp needs attention, then you will probably need help from a partner.
Choose Your Oils
The second step to a great oil massage at home is to choose the proper oils. There are a variety of oils with a variety of healing or relaxing properties; so you need to choose the right oils to achieve the desired effects. For example, rosemary oil is a great choice for those with aches and pains. Rosemary oil is also beneficial for treating cellulite. On the other hand, lavender oil is an excellent choice for relaxation. Commonly, almond-based oils are used in massage therapy because they are very soothing. Here is a short list of additional oils and their benefits to consider:
Sweet almond oil: This is one of the most common massage oils because it does not generally irritate the skin.
Apricot kernel oil: This oil is extremely rich in vitamin E and is absorbed quickly through the skin.
Jojoba oil: This oil is an excellent choice for people who suffer from back acne because it has antibacterial properties and replenishes skin moisture.
Peppermint oil: This is a great anti-inflammatory and clears up eczema.
These are just some examples of the benefits of massage oils. For more information about different types of massage oils, contact your local massage therapist.
Create Ambiance
Next create a relaxing atmosphere to evoke the relaxing elements of the oil massage. First, pick a comfortable room to perform the massage in. Prepare the room by lighting candles or incense or add vases of fresh flowers. If you like, play calming music like nature sounds in the background. Then dim the lights and settle into a comfortable position.
Calm the Mind
Calm your mind by taking a few deep breaths. Before you can relax the body, your mind needs to relax in order for your oil massage to be effective. Breathe in a steady rhythm by taking a breath in through the nose and releasing the air through the mouth. To increase relaxation, think of a calm place such as a warm beach to clear your mind of stress.
Warm Up
When beginning an oil massage, warm the massage oil. First, heat your oil to a temperature higher than room temperature but not hot enough to burn your skin. The best way to heat the oil is to warm the oil similar to how you warm a baby bottle. Start by boiling a pot of water and then place the bottle of massage oil in the water until it is heated to your liking. Once your oil is heated to the appropriate temperature, spread the oil onto the massage area.
Add Heat
After the oil is spread evenly onto the skin, massage the area using long, flowing strokes. Think of the massage like exercise: you need to warm up first. These surface strokes begin to relax the muscles in order to allow for a deeper massage as you progress.
Achieve a Meditative State
While giving an oil massage, maintain smooth strokes that are meditative in fashion. By maintaining a relaxed stroking motion, the person being massaged will have a more enjoyable, stress-free experience. In addition, maintaining calm and smooth strokes keeps the pressure balanced throughout the massage.
Work Methodically
Working just one small area is not the best method for an effective massage. Work methodically through the body. By massaging more than one area, a variety of reflex points on the body are stimulated. This allows for maximum tension release. These reflex points encourage the release of endorphins, which create positive feelings throughout the body and allow for longer lasting effects.
Be Aware
An important step to be aware of throughout the entirety of the oil massage is any potential level of discomfort. Obviously, if you are massaging yourself, it is much easier to determine if you are using too much pressure. However, if you are massaging someone else, watch for signs of discomfort. Slight changes in a person’s body position can be telltale signs of pain or discomfort. Throughout the oil massage, ask if the pressure is too much or if the oil is too hot to ensure a maximum level of comfort.
Wrap Up
The best way to end an oil massage is to end with an extremity because doing so releases endorphins. End the oil massage with long, smooth, flowing strokes to create a sense of balance throughout the body as well.
Oil massages are excellent stress relievers and methods for soothing tired muscles. But unlike regular massages, the oils greatly affect the results of these massages. Therefore, choose the right oils in order to evoke the proper responses. Oil massages rejuvenate both the mind and body through the release of endorphins. Although you may not have time to complete an oil massage every day, having a massage at least three times a week can greatly reduce stress and promote the healing of the mind, body, and soul. By following the above steps, you can achieve these results without paying for a massage at a salon or spa.
yogaesoteric
September 9, 2018
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