How To

How to Give a Massage

By eHow Health Editor
Rate: (60 Ratings)

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.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Bed or massage table
  • Person receiving massage
  • Body oil, if needed
  1. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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. Step 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. Step 5

    Slide your hands down to the person’s shoulders. Grip both of the shoulders and begin massaging with a bread-kneading motion.

  6. Step 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. Step 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.

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eHow Article: How to Give a Massage

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