How to Give a Massage

Massages are very relaxing, pampering and enjoyable. Give a massage and help someone unwind from a tough day and relieve stress. Find tension spots and melt them away with your hands as you massage those tense areas. Giving a massage is also a way to ease one’s own tension.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Bed or massage table
• Person receiving massage
• Body oil, if needed

1. Have the person lay front-side-down on a soft and steady surface. Being in a comfortable position for the massage will make it a more enjoyable experience.
2. Focus on the main spots, such as the head, neck, shoulders and back. These parts of the body carry a lot of tension and feel the greatest relief.
3. Stand beside the person and begin by using your hands in a circular motion to massage bilateral sides of the head. Apply slight pressure all around the head and behind the ears.
4. Run your hands down to the person's neck. Perform an oval-shape motion with your fingers around the sides of the neck. Focus on the base of the skull where some headaches begin.
5. Slide your hands down to the person’s shoulders. Grip both of the shoulders and begin massaging with a bread-kneading motion.
6. Glide palms down to the back region. Apply some pressure in a circular motion on the lower back and work your way up to the area around the shoulder blades.
7. Offer to repeat the massage on any areas that are still tense.

Tips & Warnings

• Using body oil makes it easier to move your hands against their skin. It is also more soothing and relaxing for some people.
• Never apply too much pressure. It may give the person sore muscles instead of relief.