If you dont have the finances to cover massages, or you want to increase their frequency without breaking your bank account, self-massage is a satisfying alternative.
The first step is to create a relaxing setting. Warmth, comfort, quiet, and low light are all essential. Find a position that is relaxing and comfortable. Lying on your back or side may be good for some parts, but for others its easiest to sit or kneel down. Have a fragrant body lotion or massage oil ready for use if you need it. Work slowly and rhythmically, closing your eyes so that you can focus all your attention on sensation. You need have no set routine, but I found the following technique to be most effective.
Begin by exploring your face thoroughly, as if you were a blind person learning to recognize it for the first time. Work more deeply with your thumbs and fingers around any areas of tension, like the jaw muscles or eye sockets.
Repeatedly comb your fingers through your hair, or gently rub your scalp, as if you were shampooing. Place your hands, fingers spread apart, on top of your head. Press down, and rub your scalp in a small, circular motion. Move your fingers a half inch closer to your forehead and repeat. Continue massaging until you reach your hairline: place the index fingers on the temples, and massage the area. This massage is immensely relaxing and effective in relieving tension, especially if youre the kind of person, like me, who tends to live in your head.
If you spend a lot of time in front of a computer, your shoulders and neck are probably tight and knotted. Massage both shoulders at once, or do first one side with your opposite hand, then the other side. Starting at the base of your neck, massage along the shoulder until you reach the top of your arm. Press fingertips deeply into the back of your shoulder as your massage. Exploring one of your own hands with the other is an unusual sensation at first, since were used to shaking or holding hands with others. But it gives us the unique opportunity to see how it feels to give and receive at the same time. Try working your thumb into the fleshy areas of the palm and stretching and squeezing each finger. We often neglect our feet, forgetting the service they do us every day. Yet massaging your own feet can be immensely beneficial and relaxing. Try working across the sole with our fingers or thumb or stretching and pulling the toes.You can also experience self-lymphatic drainage massage. Heres how: Beginning under your ears and using both hands, stroke down your neck and through to the hollow above your collarbone. Do this about fifteen times. Now cross your arms over your chest. Press your index and middle fingers into the hollow above your collarbone and circle in opposite directions. Repeat fifteen times. Next, raise one arm and massage your armpit in circles ten times. Repeat on your other side.No matter what kind of self-massage you choose to enjoy, always complete your treatment by lying down and totally relaxing for twenty minutes. Youll feel the pleasurable effects for the rest of the day!About the Author: Robin Westen writes about health for national magazines. See what others have to say about this story or leave a comment of your own.
