Ways to Give Yourself a Massage

Anyone who has ever experienced a massage knows how relaxing it can be, and anyone who suffers from shoulder, neck, or back problems knows that a massage can mean the difference between excruciating muscle pain and being able to function. Professional massages can be quite expensive, and having a friend or family member provide a massage can be very relaxing, but two extra hands aren't always available.

It is possible to give yourself a massage, and with the following methods it can be just as good as if you had an extra set of hands or a professional masseuse. If you have muscle aches, sore feet, or pain and stiffness caused by arthritis, give these ideas a try. Better yet, try them all for a do-it-yourself spa treatment that will rival any other!

Give Yourself a Back, Shoulder, and Neck Massage

To loosen up tight aching muscles in the back, neck, and shoulders, place two or three tennis balls in a long tube sock. Holding the top of the sock, swing it over the back of one shoulder, and hold onto the toe of the sock with the other hand. Lean against a wall, and roll the tennis balls over sore aching muscles. This is one of the best ways to give yourself a massage when two extra hands aren't around. Follow up with a favorite topical analgesic to take away remaining muscle aches and pain.

Give Yourself a Hand Massage

If the joints of your fingers ache from arthritis, you can give your hands a massage that will help alleviate the pain while making your skin exceptionally soft. Warm about ¼ cup of baby oil in glass or metal container in a pan of hot water. While the baby oil is warm, pour it into the palm of one hand along with a tablespoon of granulated white sugar. Rub your hands together as if you're washing them. You'll give yourself a fantastic hand massage unlike any other. Finish by rinsing your hands with warm water, and dry them well. Rub in a favorite arthritis pain relieve rub to temporarily alleviate persistent pain and stiffness.

Give Yourself a Foot Massage

When feet are aching and sore after a long day of standing in uncomfortable shoes, give yourself a relaxing foot massage. All you need is a plastic dishpan, enough marbles to cover ¾ of the bottom of the pan, the hottest water you can stand, peppermint essential oil, Dr. Scholl's Peppermint Foot Lotion or another foot lotion of your choice, a soft absorbent towel, and a comfortable chair.

Pour the marbles into the pan, and fill it with enough with water to completely cover your feet. Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil, and while sitting in a comfortable chair, give yourself a foot massage by rolling the soles of sore aching feet over the marbles. You won't believe how good they feel!

When the water cools, pat your feet dry, and rub in Dr. Scholl's Peppermint Foot Lotion or another preferred foot rub. After giving yourself this soothing foot massage you'll feel relaxed, and your feet will feel better than ever.