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Most people think that you require a special, natural talent to be able to provide a great massage. Anyone can give a great massage if they learn the key aspects and techniques of massage.

Pick up the massage oil you have selected and squeeze a small amount into your palm – don’t apply it directly on to his or her skin as it may be cold! Then rub your hands together to warm both the oil and your skin. Even on a warm evening, try to ensure that your hands are warmer than the air. This will help the relaxation process.

Start with the back, neck and arms. Place your hands flat to either side of the spine and glide them up towards the shoulders. Then curve outwards and bring them down over the ribcage on each side. Repeat and increase the pressure. Use long, smooth strokes to create relaxation and prepare the muscles for kneading.

Warm up the back by applying thumb pressure along both sides of the spine simultaneously. Start at the lower back and knead gently with your thumbs up to the neck area as this will also promote relaxation.
Keep kneading and applying pressure in order to give a truly great massage.

IMPORTANT:
It is always very important to start a massage with light pressure – this lets the client get used to your touch and feel comfortable and safe with you. Remember to use your body weight and not your muscle strength. This feels better to both you and the client and you can work a lot easier by not tiring out your smaller muscles.

The rate of your strokes can do different things. For example, a slow stroke will relax and sedate the client and will help you get through the superficial muscles and right to the deep muscles. A fast stroke on the other hand, will invigorate and tone the muscle. A medium stroke will do a little of both.

Don’t try and give a massage on a soft bed or sofa as this will not give proper support in order for you to administer the full benefits of the massage. If you do not have a massage table or an orthopedic mattress, then I would suggest using the floor as a starting point.

Whether you decide to take a course in massage at your local community centre or a certified school of massage, or simply purchase an online course or a collection of easy to read books on massage, you will certainly be on your way to being able to provide a great massage for your loved ones. Massage therapy is something that can be done by someone who is trained in the field, and it can also be done by someone who has made an effort to learn at home. For someone who makes the effort to learn on their own, the time invested to learn massage will reap benefits not only for the person learning, but for anyone on the receiving end of the massage.