How do massage

If you decide the floor is a better option, set up lots of cushions and pillows for a soft space. Make sure you're being kind to your partner's back as you get them positioned. You don't have to use oil, but it's standard in most professional sessions because it helps hands glide over tight muscle groups with ease. Since you may be applying generously, it's best to use a neutral "carrier oil," if there's a non-overpowering essential oil scent you know you love, add a couple of drops into the mix.

A few simple touches will shift your bedroom into a spa-like zone. Eliminate electronic distractions such as computer screens and blinking LED lights, and turn those cell phone ringers off. Use a blanket, if need be," Beider says. Some people need a gentle touch all over; others think that a good back massage requires getting in there and pressing hard.

Questions can mean the difference between unsatisfying—or even painful—results, and the type that turns someone to putty in your hands. The key, according to Beider, is to move slowly and ask your partner if they'd like more pressure on a certain area. Encourage them to let you know when you're doing something that feels great, too. Again, no one's receiving a Yelp review at the end of a partner session, so it's all about making it fun for all involved.

As Beider puts it, "the goal should be deep relaxation, and to create a loving atmosphere with less stress and tension. That said, there's no harm in knowing a bit about massage fundamentals. Once you've gained a basic familiarity, the object of your massage-affection can name exactly what you enjoy for next time—you can watch all three techniques in action below.

Let your doctor know you're trying massage and be sure to follow any standard treatment plans you have. Discuss the pros and cons of massage with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant or if you have cancer or unexplained pain. Some forms of massage can leave you feeling a bit sore the next day. But massage shouldn't ordinarily be painful or uncomfortable. If any part of your massage doesn't feel right or is painful, speak up right away.

Most serious problems come from too much pressure during massage. You don't need any special preparation for massage. Before a massage therapy session starts, your massage therapist should ask you about any symptoms, your medical history and what you're hoping to get out of massage.

Your massage therapist should explain the kind of massage and techniques he or she will use. In a typical massage therapy session, you undress or wear loose-fitting clothing. Undress only to the point that you're comfortable.

You generally lie on a table and cover yourself with a sheet. Your massage therapist will leave the room when you undress before the massage and when you dress after it. You can also have a massage while sitting in a chair, fully clothed. Your massage therapist should perform an evaluation through touch to locate painful or tense areas and to determine how much pressure to apply.

Depending on preference, your massage therapist may use oil or lotion to reduce friction on your skin. Tell your massage therapist if you might be allergic to any ingredients.

A massage session may last from 10 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of massage and how much time you have. No matter what kind of massage you choose, you should feel calm and relaxed during and after your massage. Breathe normally throughout your massage. Your massage therapist may play music during your massage or talk to you, but you can tell him or her if you prefer quiet. If a massage therapist is pushing too hard, ask for lighter pressure.

Occasionally you may have a sensitive spot in a muscle that feels like a knot. It's likely to be uncomfortable while your massage therapist works it out. But if it becomes painful, speak up. Ask your doctor or someone else you trust for a recommendation. Most states regulate massage therapists through licensing, registration or certification requirements. Brush aside any thoughts that massage is only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. Step 2: Now progress to applying more firm pressure with your entire hand.

Beginning at the lower back, slowly stroke all the way up to the neck, then all the way back down again. Repeat this pattern for about 5 to 10 minutes. Step 3: Now take the massage deeper by using only the heel of your hand.

Because you are massaging with a smaller surface area, the pressure naturally increases. Apply slow, circular strokes with both hands moving outward from the upper back, then move up and back toward the center. This entire step should take about 5 minutes. Step 4: After massaging with the heels of your hands, move on to this next massage tip. Move to one side of your partner and begin a deeper massage with your fingertips.

Splay out your fingertips and lay one hand directly on top of the other so you can apply twice as much pressure. Lightly glide your fingers back inward and do the same thing again a bit higher up. Now your partner should be fully relaxed and ready for the most intensive portion of the massage. Go For the Deep Tissue Of course, because you are not a licensed professional, you will not be giving an actual deep tissue massage.

But this is the point in your massage session in which you use the firmest amount of pressure and do the most healing. Put your hands on either side of his spine and splay out your fingers. Now apply deep pressure with your thumbs only, moving in concentric circles up and down his back. Your thumbs use the strongest muscles in your hands, and they are perfect for applying deep, intense pressure. Now is the time to tackle any knots you noticed earlier.

Approach these areas with more gentle pressure, rubbing around and on top of the tense tissue, then work up to deeper pressure. Check in with your partner at regular intervals to make sure that he is in no pain or discomfort.

Remember, this is for his benefit. Offer Him a Cool Down Finish with these massage tips for a relaxing a cool down: Taper the firm pressure of your thumbs into a gentler kneading by all of your fingers. After a few minutes, move on to the techniques you used during the warm up, but in reverse.