If you’ve always want to give and get massages, but know little about the subject, fret not. There are definitely a lot of things to be learned, but they are all within your reach. The article below has the information that you need to make informed decisions about the art of massage.

Always be gentle when giving someone else a message. Even if the person you are massaging complains, you should avoid applying too much pressure to their muscles and joints. Unless you have been trained in message therapy, you are more likely to hurt them than to relieve their pain by being more forceful.

Try to get a good massage a couple times per week. Lots of people who receive regular massages discover that their mood and health are improved. This is more than likely attributed to the simple fact that massages are natural stress reducers by helping relax your mind and body. If possible, try and make an appointment to get a massage a minimum of twice weekly.

Play with different oils. This is important as everyone’s body will react differently to oils, as it is your job to find the best one. Oil helps improve the massage process, and as such, are crucial to the job you are doing.

When you are giving a massage, try not to use the same stroke over and over. This can make the whole experience mundane, as you want to incorporate as much change during the session as possible. Alter your technique, the stroke and how hard you press on the back, neck and thighs.

You should do a belly massage following every meal. Using one or both palms, start rubbing your abdominal area using clockwise circular motions. The clockwise motion is the same direction that your food digests naturally in your intestines. This can help with digestion and prevent gas and intestinal discomfort.

After you have had a massage, it is very important to drink plenty of water. You will be sore because of the toxins that have been released into your system by the massage. If you drink water right after the massage, you can flush these toxins out of your system more quickly.

Interestingly enough, a certain type of massage can be very helpful after eating. It involves placing both your palms atop the stomach and doing a circular movement. This helps promote suitable digestion, since this is how the food moves through the intestines.

Let your masseuse know of your music preferences. Many people enjoy relaxing music playing during their massage, however some do not. If you prefer a quiet environment while you get your massage, speak up. You can also specify a particular type of music or even request ambient noise such as bird songs or ocean waves.

As you can now see, there are a lot of interesting variables that go into giving and getting great massages. Apply what you’ve learned here, and you will be an expert on the subject in no time. Going forward, enjoy the wonderful world of massage and what it can do for you.