In recent months, many people who never before dreamed of getting a massage have finally realized the positive effect the treatment can have on their health and well-being. This year has been a stressful one, and everyone is looking for ways to relax and de-stress. If you purchase one of NAIPO’s at-home massagers, giving yourself a massage is easy. But creating the perfect massage experience can take some practice. Here are some tips for massage beginners on how to make the most of your massage.
To start with, wear comfortable clothes. Sure, you can still have a nice massage in your work clothes immediately after getting home from the office, but you will find it much easier to relax and unwind if you change into sweats beforehand. One of the best parts about giving yourself a massage just before bed is being able to wear pajamas.
Another measure to take to make your massage more soothing is to be in a relaxed state. Obviously, this one is a little trickier. After all, one of the reasons you are giving yourself a massage in the first place is to get in a relaxed state! Still, it is important to remember that part of the benefit of massage therapy is mental: If you are not in a positive state of mind, your body will be resistant to the full soothing effects. Try to free your mind of stressful and worrisome thoughts, and make sure your body is relaxed as well. When you start your massage, you should be ready to leave this world behind and enter a realm of heavenly bliss.
Drink water before and after a massage. Too many times, people forget the importance of staying hydrated. Hydrated muscles are more flexible and easier to rid of tension, and hydration improves the circulation of blood oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Technically, a massage is a dehydrating experience, so it is critical to drink water afterwards to restore your body to its natural state, expelling toxins and metabolic waste in the process.
Set the mood. Getting a massage might not quite be like date night, but the conditions for an optimal one are certainly similar. Lighting a scented candle can conjure up pleasant memories, and playing ambient music can make it feel like all your problems have disappeared. Dim the lights, and you can create the perfect “me time” to enjoy your massage in peace and solitude.
Get comfortable. In addition to wearing comfy clothes, you can improve your massage experience by getting into a comfortable position beforehand. If you have been standing up all day, take a load off and prop your feet up before starting the massage. If you have been sitting upright too long, then lie down on your bed or sofa. By doing this, you are sending a signal to your body that it is time to stop working and prepare for a bit of leisure.
Start with the lowest intensity. Often, massage beginners will be so excited to use their new device that they immediately turn it on the highest setting, expecting it to dispel all their aches and pains and send them to Shangri-La. It doesn’t always work that way, and if your body is not used to being kneaded, it is better to start with a gentle massage. As your body starts to adjust after a few times, then you can work your way up to the higher levels.
On that same note, don’t overdo it. Keep your daily massages to no more than 15 minutes. Having the device work on a body part for longer than that can do more harm than good, potentially putting you off to massages forever. As with most things in the world, moderation is key. When it comes to massages, a little bit can go a long way, and you will find yourself wondering why it took you so long to get a massager in the first place.
