Reflexology and Massage

The technique

In reflexology, apart from the initial soothing strokes you do not massage the feet; instead, you apply precise pressure with your thumb or forefinger to each specific point. You can use either a static pressure or a "walking" technique, in which you bend and then straighten your thumb to move it forward. Hold the foot firmly with one hand, and work with your other thumb, using the edge of the thumb, just by the nail. Press firmly for about 3 seconds, then move on. Work systematically first on the right foot and then on the left.



The technique

In reflexology, apart from the initial soothing strokes you do not massage the feet; instead, you apply precise pressure with your thumb or forefinger to each specific point. You can use either a static pressure or a "walking" technique, in which you bend and then straighten your thumb to move it forward. Hold the foot firmly with one hand, and work with your other thumb, using the edge of the thumb, just by the nail. Press firmly for about 3 seconds, then move on. Work systematically first on the right foot and then on the left.

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Back Massage Guide

I will only go through the stages of back massage here, although you can adapt the moves to use on any part of the body.

Although a back massage can be performed through clothes, some of the steps are easier if you work directly on the flesh. Make sure your partner is wearing something loose that can be lifted up easily.

Place one hand on the sacrum. Stroke your other hand in a swift, smooth action up the right side of the back and around the shoulder. Glide back, then stroke up the left side of the back and shoulder in the same way.

Hold the top of the arm with one of your hands and place the knuckles of the ring and little finger of your other hand on top of the arm. Roll your wrist obliquely away from you, then roll it back onto the knuckles. Work all over the upper arm and shoulder, then repeat on the other side.

Place your thumbs and fingertips around the muscles that run down either side of the spine in the small of the back. Then, keeping your hands still, slowly rock the body. Rock for about 30 seconds, then squeeze the flesh between your fingers and thumbs, and push your hands together to create a compression. Hold for 5 seconds.

Loosely clasp your hands and rest your forearms on the upper and lower back. Then circle your forearms in an counterclockwise direction, using your body weight to achieve a deep pressure. Cover the whole area.

With your forearms in the same position, roll one of them briskly up and down the back, while keeping your other arm still. Make sure that your body weight is evenly distributed by keeping your feet apart. Then use your other forearm to roll up the back.

Place your thumbs on top of each other, just beside the spine on the side nearest to you. Press down and stroke your thumbs toward the spine. The technique, which has a strong, toning effect on the muscles, requires some practice. Stroking away from the spine relaxes taut muscles. This movement can also be done on the legs and feet.

Squeeze the flesh on the sacrum between your thumbs and the sides of your index fingers, and roll the flesh up the back by "walking" your thumbs forward. When you reach the middle of the back, glide back and repeat this movement three times. Then squeeze the flesh on the sacrum again, but instead of rolling it, pull it up sharply. Release and repeat all the way up the back.

Press your palms and fingertips together and lift your elbows out to the sides. Then, starting on the buttocks, make a hacking movement with your hands, trying to create a loud clacking sound as your fingers knock together. Work up the back.

In traditional Chinese massage, this vigorous movement is used with a special warming ointment or oil. Place one hand on top of the back as a support, and make a strong, quick, sawing movement with the side of your other hand, up and down the side of the spine. Repeat on the other side of the spine.

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Chest and Neck Massage

I am always surprised by the number of people who carry tension in their chests. Bad posture; sitting cramped over a desk; hunching over a steering wheel; certain sports, such as golf; and illnesses such as asthma, can all cause strain and tension in chest muscles. The chest muscles shorten and contract, causing the muscles in the upper back to become overstretched. This results in rounded shoulders and tight, inflexible muscles in the neck and shoulders. Massage can really help to stretch and relax the chest muscles, and thus alleviate aching in the upper back and neck. Working on the muscles between the ribs can help to straighten out the shoulders.

Get it off your chest

The ideal time to do a chest massage is before you massage the face but it also fits in naturally after a back or stomach massage, or after massage, or after massaging one arm, and before the other. Your partner should lie on his or her back and you should stand or kneel behind the head. Some people like to put a small cushion or a thick book, such as a phone book (thick but not too hard) ; under the head to allow complete relaxation of the neck. Since it is difficult to relax the chest and neck unless the shoulders are relaxed too, I always include the shoulders in a chest and neck massage.

Stretching the shoulders

Cup your hands around both shoulders and gently push them down toward the feet. Lean your weight onto the shoulders, keeping your arms straight. First push both arms down together, then alternately. Our shoulders tend to hunch up toward our ears as we become tense, and the gentle downward pressure counteracts this habit, helping stretch and loosen the chest muscles and release tension. Throughout the chest massage, whenever your hands stroke over the shoulders, give them a gentle push down toward the feet.

Robin is a home remedies and fitness expert. In his spare time, Mr. Robin write for herbal medicines and alternative medicines.

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Stroking Tips For Chest and Neck Massage

Continue the chest and shoulder massage with gentle stroking movements. This will gentle stroking movement. This will disperse the oil and soothe the area at the same time.

Spread the oil by stroking the whole chest and shoulder area with firm, flowing movements. Start with your hands next to each other, just below the clavicle at the base of her neck.

Stroke down the chest toward the breast or nipple, keeping the pressure smooth but firm. Then fan out your hands and, keeping them relaxed, glide out across the chest toward the shoulders.

Making sure your hands mold to the contours of your partner's body, stroke over the shoulders. Cup your hands over the shoulders and gently press the shoulders toward the feet or down onto the floor.

Swing your fingers around to the back of the shoulders. Stroke behind them, and bring your fingers slowly up the back of the neck. Then glide your hands very lightly down the sides of the neck to the collarbone. Repeat the sequence at least four times.

Additional chest touches

After stretching and stroking you can try anyone, or a combination, of the following moves: knuckling, deep pressures, and kneading.

Knuckling

Make your hands into fists and ripple your fingers around to make small circular movements with your knuckles. Work gently all over your partner's chest, then move to behind the shoulders, and all around the base of the neck, where you can work more deeply.

Deep pressures

Make a series of thumb pressures on the muscles between the ribs. Start in the middle and work in lines out toward the shoulders. Pressures in this area can be painful, so be guided by your partner's reaction when deciding on depth.

Get feedback about what you are doing. Find out what feels good, what is not so pleasant, and what hurts. An involuntary flinch or a verbal expression will usually make it obvious. If you know your partner well, communication will not be a problem, but you may have to keep asking if you are massaging a stranger.

Kneading

You can use this technique to great advantage on the fleshy area in front of the armpits. Pick up and squeeze the muscle with alternate hands. Work with both hands together on one side of the body, and then move to the other side and repeat the action. This simple motion can release tension not only in the chest, but also in the arms and back,

The muscle in front of the armpit is called the pectoralis, which is Latin for breast. This area is often affected by emotional stress, so massage the area with sensitivity.

Robin is a home remedies and fitness expert. In his spare time, Mr. Robin write for herbal medicines and alternative medicines.

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Self Massage - Do it Yourself

Now that you have been introduced to all the basic strokes, I am sure you can hardly wait to put the moves together into a complete sequence. Don't worry if you don't have a willing partner close at hand, because doing a massage on yourself is the perfect alternative! By practicing on yourself, you can discover how your hands might feel on others.

Legs and feet

Our legs and feet have to support all our weight so it's not surprising that they often ache and feel tired. A good massage can relieve this tension and leave them feeling light and energetic. Knowing how to massage your legs is useful whether you lead an active or a sedentary life, and regular massage of your thighs can even improve their appearance.

Few things are more exhausting and aging than sore feet. By massaging your feet daily, you can relieve tiredness and really relax; in fact, some practitioners, notably reflexologists, believe that foot massage can stimulate your whole body.


Soothing aching legs

With massage, you can relieve aching legs after standing for too long and help tired muscles recover after exercise. As in other parts of the body, light strokes stimulate the lymphatic system and deeper strokes help circulation. Always use firmer strokes as you work up the legs toward the body, and use oil to keep the movements fluid.

Start the massage by stroking your left leg up toward your body, applying a firm pressure as you go. You can either stroke one hand after the other, or place one hand on either side of the leg and stroke both hands together.
Next, knead your left leg. Using alternate hands, squeeze and release the flesh at the top of your thigh, working rhythmically and methodically. Work all over the top of your thigh, down to your knee, and continue along the back of your thigh. Then knead your calf muscles in the same leg.
Soothe your leg with criss-cross strokes. Place one hand on each side of your thigh at the knee, and pull your hands upward, squeezing your leg. Release your grip, cross your hands over, and glide them down the other side of your thigh. Then pull up your hands to repeat the action. Continue, working all the way up your thigh.
To soothe and relax your knee, apply circular pressures with your fingertips all around your left kneecap. Next, stroke softly behind your knee, stroking up toward your body
When you have completed the massage on your left leg, repeat the whole sequence on your right leg.

Easy relief for feet

Your feet are among the easiest parts of your body to self-massage, and it's something you can do wherever you happen to be. If you are sitting, simply rest one foot on the opposite thigh. If you prefer to lie down, keep one leg bent up and rest your other foot on your raised thigh. Give one foot a complete massage first, then transfer to the other one.

A great way to start a foot massage is to soak your feet in a bowl of warm, scented water.

Fill a large bowl with warm water and add a couple of drops of your favourite essential oil (lavender and peppermint are my favorites). Put your feet in and luxuriate for as long as you like before starting the foot massage below.

Rest the sale of your right foot on your left knee and sandwich your foot between your hands, with your fingers facing forward. Rub your hands backward and forward along your foot to warm the whole area.
Support the heel of your right foot with your left hand and clasp the toes with your right hand. Energetically squeeze, extend, and flex your toes to increase their flexibility.
Still supporting your right foot with your left hand, massage your toes with your right hand by squeezing, twisting, and rolling each one in turn with your fingers.
Place one thumb on top of the other, using your fingers to support your foot, and make deep, circular thumb pressures over the sale of your foot. Stroke the area. Repeat the whole sequence on your left foot.

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Self Massage For Abdomen and Lower Back

It's natural to rub your abdomen when you have a stomach ache, and any form of abdominal massage, however basic, is extremely comforting. Although you can massage your abdomen while sitting up, it is much more relaxing if you lie down. Lie somewhere comfortable, with a small pillow under your knees so that both your back and abdomen are relaxed. Always use a clockwise motion when massaging the abdomen since this follows the workings of the intestine; this can help relax the abdomen, which, in turn, can aid digestion.

Stroke one hand after the other around your abdomen in a clockwise direction, lifting one hand over the other in a continuous flow. Increase the size of the circle to cover the whole area, then gradually make it smaller again.

Apply static and circular pressures all around the abdomen, following the outline that you traced with your strokes in step 1. Use one hand on top of the other, or the palm of just one hand, depending on how much pressure you want to apply .

Bend your knees over to your left and knead the right side of your abdomen with the fingers and thumbs of alternate hands. Rhythmically pick up and release the flesh wherever you can, then bend your knees to the right and knead the left side.

You don't have to be in the perfect surroundings to do a self-massage - you can massage your feet while watching tv, or your hands while talking to a friend.

Lower back

You can massage your lower back by sitting cross-legged, as shown here, or by lying down on your side with your top knee bent in front of you. The movements outlined below are designed to release muscular tension and aid relaxation.


Relieving muscular tension

Start by vigorously rubbing the palms of both your hands up and down the small of your back, and from side to side, to warm the area and release any muscular tension.
For a stronger, deeper movement, make your hands into fists and press the thumb side of your hand into your sacrum, the lower part of your spine. Then stroke your fists firmly up and down the area.
Make deliberate, circular pressures with your fingertips or thumbs all around your sacrum.
Now, pummel the area with floppy, relaxed fists, taking care to avoid your kidneys. Finish with some gentle stroking.

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Face and Head Massage

Good face massage can soothe away anxiety, headaches, and exhaustion, and replace them with a feeling of serenity and well-being. It can leave people looking and feeling years younger. By stimulating circulation, a face massage gives a healthy, vibrant glow to the complexion, and by relaxing taut muscles, it rids the face of weariness. Head massage is the perfect complement to face massage, and the result is relaxation in every part of the body. A thin layer of muscle covers the skull, which tightens when we are tense, leading to headaches and stress. A head massage can relax this muscle and generally ease tension and anxiety throughout the body.

Stroke away your worries

A face massage can literally stroke away tension. For the best effect your hands must be relaxed, and the movements should feel flowing and confident. Remember that the face is particularly sensitive, so be sure to use enough lubrication that you avoid dragging the skin. Also check that your hands are completely free of rough skin and that your nails are short so that they don't scratch your partner's face.

You need experience to give a good face massage, so you need to practice. Try out the movements on your knee and on your own face.


Stroking

This rhythmic stroke covers the entire face and spreads the oil. Use a fine face oil, or an enriched face cream, and kneel behind your partner's head.

Start with your hands at the base of the neck, then sweep them up to the chin, using the whole surface of your hands. Pause for a moment.

Stroke out under the jaw to the ears, molding your hands to the contours of the face. Pause for a moment with your palms resting over the ears, then glide your hands back down under the chin.

Stroke with your fingertips from the chin, around the mouth, to the nostrils. Continue stroking up the sides of the nose, pausing just below the eyes, then glide out under the cheekbones and up to the temples, and return to the chin.

Stroke up the front of the face again, but this time continue up to the bridge of the nose. Pause, then stroke out across the forehead to the temples. Pause and press, then glide down to the chin. Repeat steps 1-4 at least four times.

Never give a full face massage to someone who is wearing contact lenses. Ask your partner to remove their lenses before you start, or take care to avoid the eye area.

Cupping the face

Cup your hands over your partner's face, with the palms on the forehead and your fingers over the mouth. Hold them there for a moment. Then, press down very gently. Following this, release the pressure and draw your hands out to the sides. Pause here for a moment, then repeat the whole sequence.

When cupping the face, I imagine that my hands are magnets and that I am drawing all the tension out of my client's face.

Robin is a home remedies and fitness expert. In his spare time, Mr. Robin write for herbal medicines and alternative medicines.

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Herbal Thai Massage

Originally derived from ancient Thai traditions, Herbal Thai massage is slowly becoming a popular western modality. Thai yoga massage itself dates back over 2,500 years with roots from both Indian and Chinese healing practices.



The combination of a Thai herbal compress and traditional Thai massage techniques create a treatment designed to soothe almost any aliment one might experience.

History of Thai Yoga Massage

Jivaka Kumar Bahaccha, Buddhist monk and founder of traditional Thai medicine and Thai massage techniques, established Thai massage to alleviate pain by improving the flow of 'prana' or life energy within the body.

Prana circulates through the body along pathways called 'sen lines'. Theoretically, when someone is experiencing pain or disease there is an upset in the flow of prana which flows along these sen lines.

When these blockages are stimulated with the pressure, stretching and kneading techniques, along with modified yoga postures used in Thai massage, it releases the blockage allowing prana to move freely again. As the released prana effortlessly flows again, each system of the body is saturated with vital nutrients improving the body's normal functions. As the body starts to return to a balanced state the pain decreases, energy is restored and the client is filled with a renewed sense of vitality and well-being.

The Yoga Connection

Thai massage was created based on yoga philosophies and traditions as it helps balance not only the body but the mind and spirit as well. Typically a Thai therapist meditates before each treatment to clear their mind of distracting thoughts and focus on bringing healing energy into the massage.

As stated earlier, modified yoga postures themselves are integrated into each massage session creating a multitude of avenues to apply massage techniques. Thai therapist maintains a calming quality to the massage by applying graceful rhythmic movements and focused attention while connecting the postures, similar to practicing yoga.

The Herbal Compress

Herbal Thai massage incorporates the use of a heated compress containing a collection of medicinal aromatic herbs traditionally grown in Thailand. This compress is simply a pouch filled with ground Thai herbs wrapped tightly in a natural porous cloth, usually unbleached cotton or muslin.

It is most often steamed to stimulate the herbs then pressed or rolled on the body during, before or after a Thai yoga massage. When used in conjunction with a Thai massage, the heated ball allows the muscles and joints of the body greater movement and flexibility.

The herbs themselves are absorbed through the skin and used in the body to facilitate further release of energy blockages thereby improving energy imbalances within the body. Some of the herbs have drawing properties that allow removal of inflammation and swelling typical with injuries.

Benefits of Herbal Thai Massage

Traditional Thai massage is most commonly used to treat inflammation due to muscle and joint pain, injuries or imbalances but it is not limited to muscular system. Thai massage can help with all the systems in the body allowing whole body healing.
The herbal compress promotes further healing as the typical selection of Thai herbs offer many healing properties to the mind body and soul. Together the Thai yoga massage and the herbal compress promote healing in the following ways:

• Improves muscle injuries, imbalances and pain

• Improves blood and lymph circulation

• Improves physical and mental energy by releasing energy blockages

• Improves joint flexibility and range of motion

• Reduces acute and chronic inflammation

• Improves appetite and digestive processes and dysfunctions

• Prevents illness

• Slows aging process and degeneration of soft tissues and joints

• Boosts immune system

• Lowers blood pressure

• Encourages relaxation

• Prevents and alleviates stress and anxiety

• Calms the mind, improves concentration and positive thinking

• Speeds healing

• Improves movement and function of fascia (body's connective tissue)

• Decreases cold and flu symptoms

• Improves organ function and movement

• Calms respiratory dysfunction and pain

• Eases menstrual cramps and associated pain

• Calms and prevents migraines and headaches

• Helps with insomnia and other sleep disorders

This unique Thai tradition is welcome in North America by both therapists and clients alike. Its deep rooted history, balancing techniques and aromatic benefits offer a therapeutic treatment second to none.

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Receiving Massage Has So Many Benefits

Everyone that has experienced a full body massage knows that it fills you with a sense of peace and tranquility which stays with you long after the massage is over.

There is also much more to massage than just it's wonderful ability to release tension and stress. The health benefits of massage are plentiful and by getting regular massages your health can improve tremendously.

The need for touch is one of the basic needs for all life, just as important as eating and drinking. Some studies in Russia have revealed that babies who aren't touched enough are not nearly as healthy as other babies.

By using the power of touch in the form of a massage, wonders can be created, both for your body and your mind. A great benefit from receiving massage is that it increases the circulation and makes the blood flow with more ease throughout the body.

When the blood flow increases it helps the cells to work more efficiently and it can be beneficial to those suffering from high or low blood pressure.

Massage also aids the lymphatic system, which is a large part of your body's immune system. The lymphatic system moves mucous throughout your body and doesn't have a pump.

A massage can help your muscles relax and become loose, let go of tension and can also improve your posture. For those experiencing conditions such as muscle pain, back pain, headaches, stomach pain and cramps, massage therapy can provide a lot of relief.

For those experiencing insomnia, massage can be of great benefit. By relieving accumulated tension and stress, it is much easier to get the rest we need at night so that we are able to get the most out of our awake time.

Because of the stress and tension that is so common in home and work environments of today, a lot of people have gained an imbalance in their bodies.

By using the hands and fingers to manipulate the meridians and pressure points in the body it is possible to reawaken our natural state of health and wellbeing.

Since massage is such an ancient healing method, there has been thousands of years to develop and practice the different techniques that exists today.

We are in a very lucky age right now where we can experience many different types of massage styles and learn powerful techniques from all over the world.

By combining the wisdom that comes out of old traditions with the intuitive touch and the flow in the moment, I feel that there are no limits to what you can achieve through massage.

Jason Storm is the owner of Vibrant Creations, an online education company. Visit his website on Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage

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Tax Deductible Massage

You may very well have been getting a tax-deductible massage and did not know it. Yes, that's correct! Your massage therapy may very well be tax deductible.

Many deductions, such as medical expenses, require you to overcome a minimum. For example, only medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income are allowed. This means an individual with an adjusted gross income of $40,000 can only deduct medical expenses above and beyond $3,000.

Your medical care expenses typically include medical insurance, some Medicare costs, and miscellaneous costs of health care. These could include costs for making alterations to your home prescribed for your medical condition, removing toxic substances from your home, enrolling in weight-loss programs, dental work, and travel-related expenses to get to your medical care, including mileage expense. Even that massage you got to relieve stress MAY be deductible. Other potentially deductible expenses include prostheses, and ointments or lotions for wound and skin care.

Deductible medical services can be performed by someone other than your doctor. If you have a condition like a bad back and your doctor says you need regular massage, this treatment is deductible. Make sure you get a prescription for massage from your doctor saying you need these services.

Remember that the cost of the massage therapy is TAX DEDUCTIBLE as long as a physician prescribes it.

If you routinely get massage to help manage stress, blood circulation, chronic pain, or other medical conditions ask your doctor for a prescription and get a receipt for each massage from your massage therapist.

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Eastern Head Massage

Although I was taught this technique in India, it is commonly used in many Eastern countries. In Japan, China, Singapore, and Turkey in addition to India, barbers and hairdressers will automatically offer a reviving scalp massage. The 10-minute massage outlined here is quite energetic and best done on dry hair. Walk around your partner as you do it.

Although I was taught this technique in India, it is commonly used in many Eastern countries. In Japan, China, Singapore, and Turkey in addition to India, barbers and hairdressers will automatically offer a reviving scalp massage. The 10-minute massage outlined here is quite energetic and best done on dry hair. Walk around your partner as you do it.

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The History of Massage Therapy

Massage therapists have enjoyed successful careers throughout human history; but it was not until modern times that comprehensive training programs in the field existed. With professional training, massage therapists can help clients work towards healthier, more relaxed bodies that are spiritually, emotionally, and physically balanced. Massage therapy certification is provided by reputable schools across the U.S.; classes cover new and old massage techniques.

Schools teach massage techniques from around the world. Swedish massage is the most popular, but classes in acupressure, chair massage, and deep tissue massage also instruct students in techniques for helping to heal the body and correct chronic conditions and injuries.

How did ancient massage therapy develop into modern techniques?

1500-3000 BCE

The Chinese produced some of the earliest texts used to treat illness with massage. Doctors combined their knowledge of medicine with methods of martial arts to produce techniques that coincided with the spiritual nature of Buddhism and Taoism. On the other side of the world, tomb paintings revealed that the ancient Egyptians had been practicing massage therapy as well. Reflexology was developed by the Egyptians around 2500 BCE. They believed that the human body reacts to applied pressure in certain places, such as in the feet, ears, and hands.

In India, massage techniques called Ayurveda were passed down through family lines and were not written into texts until 1500 BCE. Principles of Ayurveda teach that when a person is in harmony with natural surroundings, nature will begin to heal his or her body. Ayurveda takes into consideration each of the five senses to achieve this balance through methods of aromatherapy and massage.

500CE-1500 BCE

Japanese monks experienced Chinese practices of massage while learning about Buddhism during visits to China in 1000 BCE. Japanese would later transform what they learned into shiatsu. By stimulating the energy in the body, shiatsu strengthens the organs and helps them to be more resistant to illness. Shiatsu would become quite popular in the 20th century when Tokujiro Namikoshi coined the phrase and began a school to teach methods of shiatsu.

Around 800 BCE, the Greeks begin their own practices of massage, mainly focusing on its benefits for their athletes. They used massage to condition the body to prepare for the intense physical strain of Greek athletic competition. The Greeks also used massage to prepare for sleep and be met in their dreams by the gods they worshiped. Hippocrates, the 'father of modern medicine,' was the first physician to suggest that external factors affected the body and caused illness.

Galen, a physician who was born in Greece when it was a part of the Roman Empire, treated wounds gladiators acquired during their games. Afterward, he spent the rest of his life attending to the Imperial Court using methods of massage therapy in conjunction with the treatments he had learned by treating the gladiators. Many of the less wealthy people did not have the special attention of Galen, but could receive some of the healing effects of of massage in the public baths. The Roman citizens would bathe and receive a full body massage with aromatherapy oils.

1600-1900 CE

Massage therapy was largely unpracticed as more advanced medical pharmaceuticals and technologies were developed. It wasn't until Pehr Henrik Ling developed the techniques to treat himself for rheumatism that Swedish massage was developed -- which was known then as Swedish medical gymnastics. In 1813, he and a co-worker received government support to begin the Royal Gymnastic Central Institute in Stockholm. The goal of this institution was to help others use exercise and massage therapy to treat health conditions.

1900 CE to the present

Massage was used to treat and rehabilitate injured soldiers who fought in World War I and World War II. The physiotherapy clinics in the U.S. treated roughly 75,000 men who were disabled while fighting in World War I. During World War II, soldiers suffering from severe post-traumatic stress disorder were treated by massage therapy.

Throughout history, massage therapy has been used to treat ailments and physical stress. Today, massage therapy continues to be a popular treatment for correcting long-term health problems and illnesses.

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Chinese Massage Therapy

In china, massage is one of the therapies, along with acupuncture and herbal medicine, that has been around for centuries and is still an essential part of Chinese medical care today. Different systems coexist, including tuina ("pushing and grasping") and anmo ("pressing and rubbing"), and there are numerous regional styles. In the warm south, massage technique is usually gentle and slow, while in the colder north it is strong and vigorous. Traditionally massage is performed through clothes, so there is no need for oil.

Qi energy

In traditional Chinese medicine, the energy that flows along the meridians is known as qi (also known as chi) and the aim of treatment is to create an unobstructed flow of qi in the body. There are 12 regular meridians, each one influencing a major organ and its associated functions. Another two meridians trace the midline of the front of the body, Ren (Conception vessel) and the back of the body, Du (Governing vessel).

In a healthy person, qi is balanced between the opposite but complementary qualities, yin and yang. Yin signifies dark, cold, and passivity, and the meridians run along the front of the body, the abdomen, and the insides of the arms and legs; yang signifies light, warmth, and activity, and the meridians run mainly on the back and the outsides of the arms and legs. The aim of a massage is to balance the body into a cohesive, energetic whole.

Traditionally a Chinese masseur practices techniques on a bag of rice. When a person manages to reduce the bag of rice to one of flour, the technique is considered to be mastered.

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Aromatherapy Essential Oils For Healing Emotions & Revitalizing Yourself

Essential oils are not only the fragrances of natural plants and flowers but they are more termed as pharmacological components potent enough to treat the alignments of specific type for example they are used as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, anti-bacterial, astringent. The concept of perfume and aromatherapy dates back to ages, where Egyptian people employed the fragrances and perfumes to there religious ceremony as they believed that they could communicate with gods by creating smokes and fragrance, which also helped in attaining higher levels in meditation, they used glass and gold bottles to store the perfumes.

There is a huge number for flora and fauna in this world, which are used by humans since his evolution as in food, fragrance and healing. In the primitive ages human used many form of herbs, like Neem, sandalwood, menthol to cure the alignments as there was no other alternative, after ages now man have discovered the technologies and latest equipments of medical world to cure the alignments. Man discovered the power of nature the medicinal plants and herbs like fenugreek, fennel seeds, cardamom etc. that have medicinal properties for curing the disease.

Essential oils for healing emotions & revitalizing What does the term Aromatherapy means? It is the use of natural scents and essential oils for uplifting or energizing the mind. Different fragrances have exposed to be fantabulous for promoting varied levels of relaxation as well as alertness. Natural aromas can also have a fantastic effect on human temperament. If you want to feel howling and have extra vigor then you should surroundings yourself with scents that smell groovy to you.

There are several essential oil aromas that are great for serving us last out mentally alert. Fragrances such as Black Pepper, Peppermint, Basil, Hyssop, Cypress, Lemon, and Rosemary are absolutely wonderful for advancing concentration and mental alertness, if you're experiencing worn out or exhausted there are essential oil aromas that could assist you to comfort these feelings and allow you spirit refreshed and revitalized. Fragrances like Basil, Citrus bergamot, Piper nigrum, Salvia sclera Sage, cypress tree, Frankincense, ginger root, Citrus paradisi, Helichrysum, Jasmine, Citrus lemon, patchouli, Mentha piperita, Rosmarinus officinalis, Sandalwood, and Vetiver are beneficial for relieving exhaustion.

In today's world of heavy loads of work and competitive environment, tension comprises an immense contribution to our lives and on that point are several causes of strain that we come across in our daily life. One genuinely fantabulous way to help ease those stressed feelings is to permit ourselves to loosen up and find a way get calm. If you are looking for ways to help yourself to relax and unwind, there many different fragrances that can help you to feel calm and at ease Natural essential fragrances such as Benzoin, bergamot orange, Salvia sclarea salvia, gum olibanum, Geranium, Citrus paradisi, Jasmine, lilac, mandarin orange, Neroli, patchouli, Roman chamomile, Rose, Sandal wood, Vetiver grass, Ylang-Ylang are all very beneficial for serving us to undergo a sense of calm down calm that lowers our stress levels.

There are numerous different manners that you can enjoy these aroma oils and scents. You can burn incense sticks, fragrant candelas, employ aromatherapy oil diffusers with a special essential oil, or take a bath and add some drops of your loved oil to the bath water. Aromatherapy is a marvelous way to make relaxed and fill again your vigor. With so many choices and fragrances to be had, you are sure to find the fragrances that work better for you.

You can visit the websiteEssential oils online for various type essential oils and Natural Fragrances.

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Swedish Massage Tips - How to Give a Swedish Massage

Although massage has been around for centuries in Eastern cultures, it didn't really take off in the West until the 19th century. Under the influence of a Swedish physiologist and fencing master, Pir Henrik Ling (1776-1839), a system was developed that combined massage with physical exercise. This became known as Swedish massage, and is still the basis for most massage practiced in the West today.

Ling gave French terms to many of the movements he devised, and they are still in use today: effleurage (stroking); petrissage (kneading); frictions (circular pressures); and tapotement (percussion). In order to keep everything simple I will use the translations as these are the words I have used throughout the book.

Key principles

A sequence of Swedish massage usually starts with stroking, followed by kneading, friction, vibrations, percussion, stroking again, and then passive movements. It traditionally takes place on a massage couch, since it is essential for the masseur to keep a straight back. The massage usually begins on the legs and feet, followed by the hands and arms, then the abdomen and chest, and finally the back.

Upper leg

Place one hand behind the other on the front of the thigh above the knee. Stroke (effleurage) both your hands firmly up the thigh, and glide them smoothly down the sides.

Knead (petrissage) the thigh with alternate hands. Work up the leg in rows.

Hold the leg with one hand and use the fingers of the other to make rows of circular pressures (friction) along the outer thigh, toward the hip.

Make a light, brisk hacking (tapotement) movement with the sides of your hands, along the outer thigh. Follow with stroking (effleurage).

Lower leg

Use one hand to support the right knee, and with the thumb of your other hand, make circular pressures (frictions) all around it. Follow with firm strokes from the ankle to the knee.

Using both your hands, knead (petrissage) the inner side of the calf. Then support the leg at the ankle, and knead the outer calf.

Still supporting the leg, make circular finger pressures (frictions) with your other hand along the outer calf. Finish by stroking.

Foot

Sandwich the foot between your palms, and stroke firmly downward (effleurage) and glide back. Repeat a few times. Make circular thumb pressures (frictions) along the top of the foot with your fingers supporting the sole, then along the sole of the foot with your fingers holding the top. Massage each toe and finish with gentle stroking (effleurage).

Robin is a home remedies and fitness expert. In his spare time, Mr. Robin write for herbal medicines and alternative medicines.

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Learn Basic Swedish Massage Techniques

Massage is practiced all over the world by many different cultures. Simply speaking, it can be divided into two main types, or systems, depending on whether it originates in the West or the East. Most of the massage done in developed countries is based on so-called Swedish massage, which started as a form of physiotherapy in the early 19th century. A different system that involves softly palpating the skin is known as manual lymphatic drainage.

Passive movements

Clasp the toes with one hand and give the ankle some support with the other. Slowly rotate the foot a few times, then flex the toes gently backward and forward. Holding the ankle with one hand, raise the leg and bend the knee forward, supporting the thigh with your other hand. Straighten the leg and repeat the movement several times.

Arms and hands

Follow the sequence for legs and feet, adapting the movements for the smaller surface area of the arms, working down toward the hands.

Chest


Place your hands side by side, just below the collar bone, and stroke (effleurage) firmly down the chest. Fan out to the sides, gliding toward the shoulders. Stroke over and behind the shoulders, and up the back of the neck to the base of the skull. Glide your hands down the sides of the neck to start again. Repeat six times.

Use your thumbs and fingers to knead (petrissage) the chest gently and rhythmically. Try not to pinch the skin.

Make circular pressures (frictions) with your thumbs on the muscles between the ribs. Start at the sternum and work out in a series of rows toward the shoulders. Vary the pressure according to your partner's needs. Finish with more stroking (effleurage).

Avoid any firm movements on the sensitive tissue around the breasts.

Abdomen

Place a small pillow under the knees to relax the abdomen. Facing across the body, place one hand on the lower ribs and the other below the navel. Stroke (effleurage) your lower hand slowly and lightly around the navel in a clockwise direction.

Use the fingers of one hand to apply gentle, circular pressures (frictions). Work around the navel, increasing the pressure as your partner relaxes.

Using flat palms, knead (petrissage) the top of the abdomen by rhythmically pushing the flesh from one hand to the other. Then knead each side of the abdomen with a deeper movement.

Place one palm on top of the other, below the rib cage on the left side of the abdomen. Contract your upper forearm to create a trembling movement (vibration) in your hands, then slowly pull your hands toward the pelvis and continue around in a clockwise direction.

Back

Start with some gentle fan stroking (effleurage). Place your hands on the lower back, on either side of the spine, and stroke firmly upward. When you reach the lower ribs, fan your hands outward and down the sides. Repeat.

Face your partner's body, then knead (petrissage) grasp, squeeze, and release as much flesh as you can with alternate hands. Start on the far hip, then work up the side of the back and across the shoulders toward you. Work twice around the back.

Support the left shoulder blade with your right hand and make circular pressures with the fingers of your left hand in the groove beside and away from the spine: Work all the way down the side of the back. When you reach the hips, release, glide up, and start again on the right side of the back.

Loosely cup your hands. With your fingers pointing downward, rhythmically and lightly pat your hands alternately over the buttocks. This percussion (tapotement) movement should make a loud, hollow sound. Continue over the back, taking care to avoid the kidneys. Finish by stroking one hand after the other down the back.

Robin is a home remedies and fitness expert. In his spare time, Mr. Robin write for herbal medicines and alternative medicines.

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Massage for Headaches

The type of massage you use depends on the intensity of the headache and what your partner prefers. You can use very gentle feather stroking or deep firm pressure. It is generally best to start with slow, superficial stroking and then as the pain subsides and your partner relaxes and feels confident of your touch, you can apply firm pressures to key points.

Although every headache is different, I find that I get the best results by following this general pattern. Always use smooth, rhythmic, and compassionate movements.

Stroke up the forehead very gently and slowly, then rhythmically stroke the chest and shoulders, and up the back of the neck.
Apply circular pressures behind the shoulders, up the back of the neck on either side of the spine, at the base of the skull, and on the scalp.
Gently stroke the whole face from the center out to the sides.
Press the bridge of the nose, then pinch the eyebrows, and press on the temples.
Press in the middle of the cheek, directly under the cheekbone, and then apply a line of pressures up the center of the forehead, from between the eyebrows to the hairline.
Circle around the eyes, stroking out along the eyebrows and gliding back gently under the eyes.
Stroke rhythmically up the forehead with one hand following the other, as you did at the beginning.

If there is very little time, or I am treating a very severe migraine, I get the best results by imagining that my hands are magnets, drawing out all the tension and pain. Use the feather touch, and stroke the tension away from the head and off the body.

Many other types of massage can help relieve headaches including back, face, neck and shoulder, and hand massage. Shiatsu, reflexology, and aroma therapy may also help.

Self-help for headaches

One of the best ways to relieve your headache is with self-massage. First massage the back of your neck and head, then concentrate on your forehead, around your eyes, and on your temples. Very gentle, light stroking on your forehead also helps relieve even the most stubborn headache.

Shiatsu for headaches

Shiatsu is often very helpful, particularly for severe headaches. Many of my clients have told me that they can control headache pain by massaging acupressure points, particularly those found in the hands, wrists, ankles, and feet. One of the best shiatsu points to press is known as the "Great Eliminator." This is situated between the thumb and the forefinger; press around the area until you find a point that usually feels quite distinctive.

Do not press the "Great Eliminator" point during pregnancy; it's not called that for nothing!

Robin is a home remedies and fitness expert. In his spare time, Mr. Robin write for herbal medicines and alternative medicines.

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Benefits of Professional Therapeutic Massage

Everyone feels great after a well done therapeutic massage. Massage has been documented back to 2700 BC and found in many ancient cultures. For example, it is documented that the Chinese, Egyptians, Indians, Greeks, and Romans all benefited from therapeutic massage. In fact, Hippocrates wrote of the benefits of massage in the 5th century BC. However, even with widespread awareness and rich history, few people realize how many health benefits there are to getting a massage and why it has such profound effects. Therapeutic massage can be used for pain control/relief, healing, and overall wellness.

Naming just a few benefits, a good massage, especially one that works into your muscles such as a deep tissue massage, can help alleviate back pain, enhance the immune system, exercise weak muscles, increase flexibility, lessen depression, improve circulation, and relieve tension. With all these benefits, the primary advantages can be summed up as reduced fatigue and increased energy.

A number of methods are used in professional massage, including moving pressure, fixed pressure, holding, kneading, point pressure, and distributed pressure. A professional therapist may use hands, elbows, forearms, and even knees and feet to release the tension deep in your muscles. Professional massage therapists may also use a device or machine to assist in massage. Small hand-held devices that can provide point pressure are common as are professional massage machines that use percussion to drive the massage deep into your muscle tissue. A machine-assisted massage can be provided quicker and deeper than a manual massage and causes less fatigue on the massage therapist.

Therapeutic massage helps the patient with pain control/relief by sending impulses to the brain through the same nerves that transmit pain signals. By doing so, the receptors in the brain never receive pain impulses because they are effectively blocked. As a patient receives a therapeutic massage, natural pain killing endorphins are released which act very much like a high power drug in dulling the senses to pain. In addition, muscles are loosened which improves circulation allowing oxygen and nourishment to reach painful muscles, thereby allowing them to relax.

A therapeutic massage stimulates the lymph system. The lymph system brings nutrients to every cell in the body and takes away waste products produced by the body's cells. Sore and tight muscles are usually starved for oxygen and nutrients because their tightness is preventing the lymph system from operating effectively. A therapeutic massage dilates blood vessels while loosening muscles. This restores the lymph system, allowing for nutrients to pass and waste to be taken away.

Healing through therapeutic massage is a common practice, especially among professional athletes and others who are hard on their muscles and overall body. A weak, injured, or sore muscle can have a profound effect on someone who is required to operate at peak performance. A sports therapist is likely to use a mechanical motorized massager in their work. This allows them the quickly provide deep tissue massage without wearing themselves out. Massagers used by professionals, such as a Thumper massager, use percussion as their primary massage action. A high quality professional percussion massager is much different than most consumer models which only vibrate and rub the skin. While a vibrating massager may feel nice, it lacks the ability to penetrate through thick muscle.

This ancient form of healing and rejuvenation has been refined over thousands of years. While still retaining the same basic principles, massage is applied to many different ailments and situations. A deep tissue massage that exercises and relaxes muscles can provide relief to pain, heal, and enhance overall wellness.

Jack Webster writes for Better Health Innovations. Also check out the Thumper Mini Pro 2 Massager.

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Aromatherapy Massage

The practice of aromatherapy involves using essential oils from plants to heal the body, decrease pain and help keep one's moods in check. It can help in decreasing depression, increase focus and provides a "pick me up." Essential oils come from roots, flowers and plant extracts. Aromatherapy massage utilizes these essential oils for all of these benefits. They can also be used for other spa-like treatments, for example facials and hydrotherapy baths.



To prepare essential oils for a aromatherapy massage, they should be combined with a carrier oil such as grapeseed or sweet almond oil. The oils that you use will depend on how you are feeling, what you are looking to accomplish or what ailment that you are trying to treat. If you are feeling sad, or stressed, lavender oil is a good essential oil to use. If you need to treat tired and sore muscles, then you may opt for peppermint oil.

A massage therapist can mix up to five essential oils to create your massage oil. You want to make sure that you work with an aromatherapist who is qualified and that knows how to properly mix and use the massage oils so that you don't suffer any skin irritations or other negative reactions.

Many store brought products claim to use aromatherapy. However, it most cases, these include little more then perfumes and fragrances. These do not quality as aromatherapy. Real aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils, which most of these products do not contain. Instead, most of these use chemicals and not essential oils. So don't be fooled. You won't get the same benefits that essential oils provide.

If you are interested in creating your own aromatherapy massage blend, you may want to try the following recipe.

8-10 drops of your favorite essential oil blend, or single essential oil

1 ounce of carrier oil

You will need to mix the oils. The mixture should be stored in a cobalt glass or amber bottle or container. You can use this blend whenever you get your next massage.

An aromatherapy massage can be great way to relax and to relieve tired, sore muscles and a stressed out mind. If you plan on creating your own massage oil, be sure to mix your essential oil blend with a carrier oil so that you do not irritate the skin. You should not place essential oils directly into the skin without a carrier oil. Also, be sure to only use safe oils that will not negatively react to the skin. This may require that you do a little research to determine which essential oils are not safe for human use. Also never use essential oils on babies or young children.

George Key lives in an island of Greece and he is very interested in natural health and alternative medicine. He owns a site dedicated to Aromatherapy and Essential Oils with many effective Aromatherapy Blends and Tips for natural healing.

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