How to Give a Back Massage

Back massages have many therapeutic benefits including stress relief and relaxation. Massages are easy to give, and your friends, family members, or special someone will appreciate receiving one. Read on to learn how to give a back massage.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Essential oils/massage lotion
• <br>Table
• <br>Blanket
• <br>Music
• <br>Candles

1. Set up a quiet area for the massage. Candles and relaxing music can help set the mood.
2. Have the person receiving the massage, lie down on a table or mat. Check to make sure they are comfortable. Putting a pillow underneath the person's shins can help release pressure on the lower back.
3. Ask the person receiving the massage if they have any problem areas like tightness in certain areas of their back. Remember to pay special attention to these areas throughout the massage.
4. If you choose to use essential oils or a massage lotion, pour some in your hands and rub your hands together to warm it up before placing it on the person’s back.
5. Begin rubbing the person’s shoulders and continue rubbing in that area until you notice that the person’s muscles have begun to loosen up.
6. Have the person put each arm behind their back one at a time so you can rub around the shoulder blades.
7. Remember to ask throughout the massage if the pressure is comfortable. Depending on whether the area is tender, you may have to rub lighter. Or some people prefer deeper massages.
8. Move down the sides of the spine making small circular movements with the tips of your fingers. Go up and down a few times.
9. When you reach the lower back, use your thumbs to make larger circular motions.
10. Massage any problem areas that the person has or areas where the muscles are still tense.
11. End the massage by using the palm of your hands to firmly stroke up and down the back.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the person’s preferences in mind throughout the massage.
• <br>Try to keep one hand on the person at all times so the massage feels connected.
• Do not put pressure on the spine.
• <br>Avoid any open sores or broken skin.