Self Massage: Guide to Self Massage Equipment and Techniques

Self massage can provide effective relief from stress and pain at little or no cost. This is a guide to basic techniques, self massage equipment, and resources for more information on relaxation massage and massage for pain.

Self Massage: Basic Techniques for Relaxation Massage and Massage for Pain

Relax and get focused by taking deep, slow breaths. Make sure you have an area large enough to move freely and position yourself comfortably. Keep your fingers and wrists in a neutral position, and vary your strokes as you work. Always move slowly to avoid causing pain to tender areas. Start with light, flowing strokes. Then you can cup your hands to mold around the targeted body part to create more pressure and gently work into the muscle. Apply massage evenly. If you self massage one hand, do the other hand as well for about the same time and with a similar technique. Always stretch out your muscles after massaging any body area. If pain persists, see your doctor to rule out any medical cause.

Self Massage: Tips for Specific Problems and Body Areas

Self massage is a great solution for many problems including strain from computer work, back pain, insomnia, headaches, and recovery from sports injuries. You can experiment with basic techniques or learn more from courses, books, and videos from many sources including the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). They publish consumer information, and their classified ads and calendars include self massage materials and courses taught by qualified massage therapists. WebMD has a very useful article with detailed self massage instructions for specific body areas developed by AMTA experts. For example, you can practice relaxation massage to ease headaches and stress by placing your thumbs on your cheekbones and using your fingertips to gently rub your temples. Then, use firm and tiny circular motions across your entire forehead and scalp.

Self Massage: Massage Equipment and Massage Tools

Your own hands may be the only equipment you need, but there are affordable massage tools to enhance the experience. An ordinary tennis ball is a valuable piece of massage equipment that can help you massage hard to reach spots like your lower back. There are also many places to purchase massage equipment including The Comfort Store. They have a large assortment of self massage equipment including rollers and balls. Experiment to find what works best for you, and enjoy the benefits of self massage for pain and relaxation massage.