By Peter Gitundu
Having a baby is exciting for the mother to be. She looks forward to the birth of her child and to the new life ahead. The one thing she does not anticipate is the discomfort that comes about because of the pregnancy. A pregnancy massage has the ability to provide the mother to be with relief and different benefits. It's important to know that one does not have to have a massage when she is pregnant. It's a matter of preference. She can also discuss the benefits with her doctor before she does decide to have a massage.
The best time to have a massage is after the first trimester. The most comfortable position for the massage is when she is laying down on her side. She can use pillows to provide support and more comfort. Because during pregnancy a woman might react to some smells, the masseuse will use neutral smelling oils. If she doesn't like it, she can inform the masseuse and they can find oil that will work for her.
The therapists work on all areas that have been causing her pain, but don't work too long on areas close to the heel and ankle. Its said that they are connected to the uterus and the vagina. By having a sustained pregnancy massage in these areas there is a possibility of an early birth. A good pregnancy massage brings wonderful benefits to a mother to be. These include maintaining proper posture, reducing swelling of hands and feet and reduction of insomnia. The unborn child also feels the effects of the massage, as the mothers body starts to relax and feel better. The mother's body is also prepared for the birth process.
Peter Gitundu Creates Interesting And Thought Provoking Content on Massage Therapy. For More Information, Read More Of His Articles Here
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
Which Type Of Massage Is For You?
By Chris W.
Getting a back massage is one of the best ways to give relief to back pain and strained muscles. It has both short term and long term benefits, getting rid of pain in the short term and helping sore muscles regenerate quicker in the long run. It does this by increasing blood flow to the area and stimulating endorphin production. Bur there are many, many different types of massage out there. How do you figure out which one is for you?
Four of the major types of massage are acupressure, deep tissue, deep connective tissue, and sports massage. Each one caters to a different set of clientele and needs. For instance, sports massage deals with issues relating to sports, such are injuries and sore or strained muscles. Two other functions of this are to get rid of muscle tension and inflammation and also to help warm up and loosen muscles. Stretch may also be incorporated into sports massages.
Deep tissues massages are also used to treat injured muscles, but they are also for people with chronic tension, motion range issues, and chronic back pain related to poor posture. It does as the name suggests, massages the deep tissues in your body to release knots and other sources of tension. Closely related to this is the deep connective tissue massage. This also aims to treat chronic tightness in your muscles, but also tries to break up scar tissue. This massage is good for people recovering from injuries or that have problems with range of motion.
Finally, acupressure is an ancient Chinese type of massage. It tries to remove the things that "block energy" as it flows around the body. These blocks cause your health to deteriorate and cause soreness and stiffness in your body. This method does have some real health benefits, including increased circulation and endorphin production. This is a good option for people looking for an all-over feel good massage.
You already know about the health benefits of massage. If you want the comfort of a Back Massage in the comfort of your own home, a great option is to get a gravity chair with massage capabilities.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Getting a back massage is one of the best ways to give relief to back pain and strained muscles. It has both short term and long term benefits, getting rid of pain in the short term and helping sore muscles regenerate quicker in the long run. It does this by increasing blood flow to the area and stimulating endorphin production. Bur there are many, many different types of massage out there. How do you figure out which one is for you?
Four of the major types of massage are acupressure, deep tissue, deep connective tissue, and sports massage. Each one caters to a different set of clientele and needs. For instance, sports massage deals with issues relating to sports, such are injuries and sore or strained muscles. Two other functions of this are to get rid of muscle tension and inflammation and also to help warm up and loosen muscles. Stretch may also be incorporated into sports massages.
Deep tissues massages are also used to treat injured muscles, but they are also for people with chronic tension, motion range issues, and chronic back pain related to poor posture. It does as the name suggests, massages the deep tissues in your body to release knots and other sources of tension. Closely related to this is the deep connective tissue massage. This also aims to treat chronic tightness in your muscles, but also tries to break up scar tissue. This massage is good for people recovering from injuries or that have problems with range of motion.
Finally, acupressure is an ancient Chinese type of massage. It tries to remove the things that "block energy" as it flows around the body. These blocks cause your health to deteriorate and cause soreness and stiffness in your body. This method does have some real health benefits, including increased circulation and endorphin production. This is a good option for people looking for an all-over feel good massage.
You already know about the health benefits of massage. If you want the comfort of a Back Massage in the comfort of your own home, a great option is to get a gravity chair with massage capabilities.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Cure Neck Pain With Massage
By Michael Tasker
It is a symptom that many suffer on a daily basis when sometimes it just appears, perhaps after a night's sleep. It's neck pain, yet it can be cured. And whilst there are two common causes, it is essential to make the distinction between each so that the correct therapy, such as massage is undertaken to relieve what can be very restrictive and painful.
The most common causes of neck pain can be divided between those caused by sprains, which is an injury to the ligaments of the spine and strains where the spinal muscles have been subjected to injury. If the pain being suffered is continual, this will be the result of inflammation and swelling of the affected tissue. A neck sprain can be the result of an injury which tears or stretches the neck's soft tissue whilst a neck strain is the result of not an immediate incident but one that has been allowed to occur over a period of time. Examples include the adoption of a poor posture which also includes a poor sleeping position or repetative stress syndrome, the cause of which is the overuse of a muscle.
A simple solution to ensure the elimination of one source of neck pain is to adopt and maintain the correct posture when either walking or sitting down. If additional means of support such as a lumbar cushion for a seat is required then it should be used. When asleep, it is important to remember that the neck requires proper support by both a quality mattress and pillows that are not too old. These simple techniques can help in the rehabilitation of the injured area and eliminating the potential for it to happen again, though often it is through the use of massage therapy that will have the effect of fully eliminating the symptoms.
The length of time it takes for gaining relief from discomfort will depend on the extent and severity of the injured muscle and tissue together with other factors such as age and overall health and fitness. And whilst massage therapy can be very effective as a means of not only soothing the immediate discomfort and assisting in the repair of the tissue, several treatment sessions maybe required to attained sufficient relief from the injury.
So what can be done to bring about neck pain relief? It is important to recognise that often the most effective remedies are not those that give quick fixes such as the easy option of taking medication. By adopting neck massage techniques, blood circulation will be stimulated and coupled with the manipulation of the muscles, the healing process will be improved reducing the stress and tightness within the muscles. And by undertaking several massage sessions plus also simple steps to ensure correct posture is maintained, the problem of neck pain from strains should be greatly diminished. As for muscle sprains, these will always happen and in having the skill to give an effective neck massage, your talent will always been in demand.
Imagine your hands with that power, that ability, that talent, knowing how to give a neck massage. Take action now and release the untapped potential. Learning how to give a neck massage is much easier to achieve than you think using professional instruction massage dvd. Watch and listen as the experts show you exactly how it is done. Unleash the power in your hands today.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
It is a symptom that many suffer on a daily basis when sometimes it just appears, perhaps after a night's sleep. It's neck pain, yet it can be cured. And whilst there are two common causes, it is essential to make the distinction between each so that the correct therapy, such as massage is undertaken to relieve what can be very restrictive and painful.
The most common causes of neck pain can be divided between those caused by sprains, which is an injury to the ligaments of the spine and strains where the spinal muscles have been subjected to injury. If the pain being suffered is continual, this will be the result of inflammation and swelling of the affected tissue. A neck sprain can be the result of an injury which tears or stretches the neck's soft tissue whilst a neck strain is the result of not an immediate incident but one that has been allowed to occur over a period of time. Examples include the adoption of a poor posture which also includes a poor sleeping position or repetative stress syndrome, the cause of which is the overuse of a muscle.
A simple solution to ensure the elimination of one source of neck pain is to adopt and maintain the correct posture when either walking or sitting down. If additional means of support such as a lumbar cushion for a seat is required then it should be used. When asleep, it is important to remember that the neck requires proper support by both a quality mattress and pillows that are not too old. These simple techniques can help in the rehabilitation of the injured area and eliminating the potential for it to happen again, though often it is through the use of massage therapy that will have the effect of fully eliminating the symptoms.
The length of time it takes for gaining relief from discomfort will depend on the extent and severity of the injured muscle and tissue together with other factors such as age and overall health and fitness. And whilst massage therapy can be very effective as a means of not only soothing the immediate discomfort and assisting in the repair of the tissue, several treatment sessions maybe required to attained sufficient relief from the injury.
So what can be done to bring about neck pain relief? It is important to recognise that often the most effective remedies are not those that give quick fixes such as the easy option of taking medication. By adopting neck massage techniques, blood circulation will be stimulated and coupled with the manipulation of the muscles, the healing process will be improved reducing the stress and tightness within the muscles. And by undertaking several massage sessions plus also simple steps to ensure correct posture is maintained, the problem of neck pain from strains should be greatly diminished. As for muscle sprains, these will always happen and in having the skill to give an effective neck massage, your talent will always been in demand.
Imagine your hands with that power, that ability, that talent, knowing how to give a neck massage. Take action now and release the untapped potential. Learning how to give a neck massage is much easier to achieve than you think using professional instruction massage dvd. Watch and listen as the experts show you exactly how it is done. Unleash the power in your hands today.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Safe and Effective Pregnancy Massage
By Samantha Thurlby-Brooks
Massaging a woman from 13 weeks onwards during her pregnancy is a fantastic way to keep a mum-to-be relaxed and comfortable as her growing body accommodates the new weight. The main benefits of regular safe and effective mama massages are:
Relief of pain
Improved circulation for mother and baby
Improved immune system for mother and baby
Better sleep
A more relaxed attitude towards giving birth, and thus better birth outcomes
Better bonding between mother and baby
Improved chances of carry the baby to full-term
A healthier and calmer baby of good weight
Improved skin condition
Relief of headaches and possibly nausea
Extras you will need:
A firm, steady, thick pillow for the leg plus a towel to cover
A thin cushion or towel for under the belly
An two towels or sheets for draping
A pillow to hold on to
Positioning:
A pregnant woman should NEVER lie on her stomach. This is partially for insurance reasons, but also because the weight of the uterus will pull the ligaments on the mothers’ sacrum (lower back) and cause back ache (not what we’re trying to do!)
Do not massage any woman who is less than 12 weeks pregnant due to the increase risk of miscarriage. This is through nothing you would have done, but for insurance reasons stay safe. A woman who has lost her baby following a massage is more likely to accuse and sue you and cause bad relations than someone who had a sore muscle from a strong massage.
It is possible to have a pregnant woman of 13-22 weeks lying on her back with a cushion under her right hip/ buttock, but any pregnant woman who is more than 22 weeks should not lie on her back for more than 3 minutes. She may be propped up to a seated position if you need to work on her front. Lying on her back, the weight of the uterus, after 22 weeks, is too much pressure for the vena cava (main vein running up the right side of the spine) and will cause breathlessness in the mother and nutrient and oxygen restrictions to the baby.
You will find it easier and generally safer to always massage a pregnant woman in the side lying position, asking her to turn over half way through so you can massage both sides effectively.
When lying on her side, the pregnant woman should have her knee and foot on a firm and steady cushion that is high enough for her hip to be at a right angle so her leg is not pulling on her hip and lower back. Make sure the foot is supported as this creates more comfort for the mother.
If her belly is feeling like it is pulling while lying on her side, the mother-to-be will need a small cushion or towel under her belly. Let her put the cushion there so she can make herself comfortable. Any woman who is more than 22 weeks pregnant will need the belly cushion even if they initially feel comfortable… 1 hour on a couch can change things.
Ask your pregnant lady to lie on the couch with her back as close to the edge as she can… this makes it more comfortable for you to massage her so you don’t have to over reach. Make sure that the cushions under her legs are close enough to her so her back and hips are not twisting.
Once you have made sure her leg is comfortable and the blankets are neatly in place you can then give your mother-to-be a pillow to hold on to like a teddy bear so as she doesn’t put any pressure on her growing, tender breasts.
You will need two towels to drape your pregnant client. Make sure one towel covers the legs and is tucked neatly into the lady’s undies, pulling them down far enough so you can work on the hips. And drape another towel over her back so it falls across the front and back of the woman. Ask her if she’s comfortable with a blanket over her as many pregnant ladies get over heated. Ask her if she’d like her feet covered or uncovered.
Make sure your pregnant client has a pillow under their head that is not too high or too low…their neck should be in line with their spine. If the pillow is too low for her she is likely to put a hand under her head, so you’ll know if she needs extra support.
Whether a pregnant woman has a large belly or not, always use side lying when giving a mama massage.
Pressure:
You can use as much pressure as your client wants when working on the back of a pregnant lady. The lower back and sacrum is often very sore and stiff because of bad posture so working as strong as the client likes is good to help release tight muscles. The shoulders and neck are also sore spots for pregnant women and can be massaged as strong or light as your client requires.
The only place on a pregnant body that you must NOT massage is the inside of the legs. A pregnant woman has 40% more blood in her body which is thicker and prone to clotting. This is a great design feature for giving birth in case of hemorrhaging. Normally the clots will disintegrate naturally, but if you use pressure on the inner thigh and calves, or any shaking/percussion moves on the leg you may accidentally move a clot which could cause thrombosis (dangerous restriction on blood flow) and cause problems for mother and baby.
You can safely massage a pregnant woman’s feet with as much pressure as she is comfortable with. Massaging the feet has a different intention and effect than reflexology, so is not dangerous to the mother or baby. Reflexology can safely be given to a pregnant woman from 13 weeks onwards, so long as you stay away from the reproductive area and the pituitary gland as both of these can stimulate a miscarriage or premature labour.
If your client has water retention (puffy) hands and or feet, make sure you use very light pressure on these areas.
Some women really like their belly’s being touched when their pregnant, while others hate it. Ask the mother before the start of the massage if she would like her belly touched. If she would like it to be massaged, only use gentle pressure with the flat of your hand (no pushing or poking with fingers)
Precautions:
No massage before 13 weeks (unless you've had specific training)
No massaging the inner leg
No shaking moves on the legs
No massage for any pregnant lady who is bleeding
Always ask if there has been any complications, nausea, bleeding and if all their scans and tests have come back good.
Always ask the client to tell you if there are any sore/painful spots… never make the massage so strong it’s painful. The baby gets the same as the mum, so if she’s in pain the baby will be also. There’s a difference between a strong massage that feels good and a strong massage that is painful but the client thinks it’s doing good.
Conclusion
Pregnant women deserve to be massaged… so don’t be shy! If in doubt about massaging your pregnant client, don’t do it. Seek medical or other specialist health professional advice.
Article source: www.amazines.com
Massaging a woman from 13 weeks onwards during her pregnancy is a fantastic way to keep a mum-to-be relaxed and comfortable as her growing body accommodates the new weight. The main benefits of regular safe and effective mama massages are:
Relief of pain
Improved circulation for mother and baby
Improved immune system for mother and baby
Better sleep
A more relaxed attitude towards giving birth, and thus better birth outcomes
Better bonding between mother and baby
Improved chances of carry the baby to full-term
A healthier and calmer baby of good weight
Improved skin condition
Relief of headaches and possibly nausea
Extras you will need:
A firm, steady, thick pillow for the leg plus a towel to cover
A thin cushion or towel for under the belly
An two towels or sheets for draping
A pillow to hold on to
Positioning:
A pregnant woman should NEVER lie on her stomach. This is partially for insurance reasons, but also because the weight of the uterus will pull the ligaments on the mothers’ sacrum (lower back) and cause back ache (not what we’re trying to do!)
Do not massage any woman who is less than 12 weeks pregnant due to the increase risk of miscarriage. This is through nothing you would have done, but for insurance reasons stay safe. A woman who has lost her baby following a massage is more likely to accuse and sue you and cause bad relations than someone who had a sore muscle from a strong massage.
It is possible to have a pregnant woman of 13-22 weeks lying on her back with a cushion under her right hip/ buttock, but any pregnant woman who is more than 22 weeks should not lie on her back for more than 3 minutes. She may be propped up to a seated position if you need to work on her front. Lying on her back, the weight of the uterus, after 22 weeks, is too much pressure for the vena cava (main vein running up the right side of the spine) and will cause breathlessness in the mother and nutrient and oxygen restrictions to the baby.
You will find it easier and generally safer to always massage a pregnant woman in the side lying position, asking her to turn over half way through so you can massage both sides effectively.
When lying on her side, the pregnant woman should have her knee and foot on a firm and steady cushion that is high enough for her hip to be at a right angle so her leg is not pulling on her hip and lower back. Make sure the foot is supported as this creates more comfort for the mother.
If her belly is feeling like it is pulling while lying on her side, the mother-to-be will need a small cushion or towel under her belly. Let her put the cushion there so she can make herself comfortable. Any woman who is more than 22 weeks pregnant will need the belly cushion even if they initially feel comfortable… 1 hour on a couch can change things.
Ask your pregnant lady to lie on the couch with her back as close to the edge as she can… this makes it more comfortable for you to massage her so you don’t have to over reach. Make sure that the cushions under her legs are close enough to her so her back and hips are not twisting.
Once you have made sure her leg is comfortable and the blankets are neatly in place you can then give your mother-to-be a pillow to hold on to like a teddy bear so as she doesn’t put any pressure on her growing, tender breasts.
You will need two towels to drape your pregnant client. Make sure one towel covers the legs and is tucked neatly into the lady’s undies, pulling them down far enough so you can work on the hips. And drape another towel over her back so it falls across the front and back of the woman. Ask her if she’s comfortable with a blanket over her as many pregnant ladies get over heated. Ask her if she’d like her feet covered or uncovered.
Make sure your pregnant client has a pillow under their head that is not too high or too low…their neck should be in line with their spine. If the pillow is too low for her she is likely to put a hand under her head, so you’ll know if she needs extra support.
Whether a pregnant woman has a large belly or not, always use side lying when giving a mama massage.
Pressure:
You can use as much pressure as your client wants when working on the back of a pregnant lady. The lower back and sacrum is often very sore and stiff because of bad posture so working as strong as the client likes is good to help release tight muscles. The shoulders and neck are also sore spots for pregnant women and can be massaged as strong or light as your client requires.
The only place on a pregnant body that you must NOT massage is the inside of the legs. A pregnant woman has 40% more blood in her body which is thicker and prone to clotting. This is a great design feature for giving birth in case of hemorrhaging. Normally the clots will disintegrate naturally, but if you use pressure on the inner thigh and calves, or any shaking/percussion moves on the leg you may accidentally move a clot which could cause thrombosis (dangerous restriction on blood flow) and cause problems for mother and baby.
You can safely massage a pregnant woman’s feet with as much pressure as she is comfortable with. Massaging the feet has a different intention and effect than reflexology, so is not dangerous to the mother or baby. Reflexology can safely be given to a pregnant woman from 13 weeks onwards, so long as you stay away from the reproductive area and the pituitary gland as both of these can stimulate a miscarriage or premature labour.
If your client has water retention (puffy) hands and or feet, make sure you use very light pressure on these areas.
Some women really like their belly’s being touched when their pregnant, while others hate it. Ask the mother before the start of the massage if she would like her belly touched. If she would like it to be massaged, only use gentle pressure with the flat of your hand (no pushing or poking with fingers)
Precautions:
No massage before 13 weeks (unless you've had specific training)
No massaging the inner leg
No shaking moves on the legs
No massage for any pregnant lady who is bleeding
Always ask if there has been any complications, nausea, bleeding and if all their scans and tests have come back good.
Always ask the client to tell you if there are any sore/painful spots… never make the massage so strong it’s painful. The baby gets the same as the mum, so if she’s in pain the baby will be also. There’s a difference between a strong massage that feels good and a strong massage that is painful but the client thinks it’s doing good.
Conclusion
Pregnant women deserve to be massaged… so don’t be shy! If in doubt about massaging your pregnant client, don’t do it. Seek medical or other specialist health professional advice.
Article source: www.amazines.com
Baby Massage Techniques
By Dipesh Sharma
Learn the Basics of Baby Massage
Baby massage has been in practice since ancient times and every premature baby massage article research review would extol the benefits of attending baby massage classes, and of using a baby massage kit. Babies love to be massaged, and all that a parent would require from a baby massage gallery, would be a soft warm towel, and some baby oil or lotion. Reading a baby massage research review would make first - time parents realize that a massage could mean anything as simple as a gentle after-bath rub, or a more organized infant massage.
The parent or caregiver could view a baby massage DVD on the techniques of a good baby massage, and attend baby massage classes where parents could watch baby massage for dummies to hone their skills. Typically baby bottles are designed to feed an infant, and come equipped with a nipple or teat. Choosing the right bottle for baby may require some research and browsing around, and testing for the right fit ( glass baby bottles that are of a compact size with flat sides are so much easier for baby to grip), but is well worth the time and effort spent. In fact, a well chosen bottle can help prevent baby suffering a stomach upset and a host of other problems. Ultimately, how you intend using the bottle will help you identify which bottle is correct for you.
Basic Baby Massage Techniques
A baby massage could vary from a casual tender rub down of baby's soft skin, to a more practiced, and focused massage. The basic technique for a message would deal mainly with how much pressure to use on baby's tender muscles and skin. To learn this would be first to close one's eyes and gently press the eyelids without feeling any discomfort. That is the amount of pressure that a parent or c aregiver must use when massaging baby. In the small areas, use little gentle strokes with the fingertips to caress baby's skin. In the larger areas, the palm of the hand can be used to massage baby's muscles softly under the skin. While massaging babies
Head Massage
Tenderly touch the forehead, the temples and work a gentle path down to the base of the cranium. Then with feather-light strokes, tenderly stroke the eyebrows, the eyelids, the cheeks and baby's little nose. Softly stroke the area around the mouth, and the ears.
Jaws
Very, very gently touch the front part of the neck, lightly stroking a path to the back part where baby' skin can be massaged lovingly. Then slowly move down to the shoulders, and placing both hands on them, tenderly caress baby's soft skin from the neck down to the shoulders in the direction of the chest
Shoulder And Arms
Encircling baby's arm in the shape of a ring with the fingers and thumb, begin lightly to stroke around the armpit, and then gently caress down along the arm. The elbow is a very sensitive area, so the parent has to exercise extreme caution while touching baby's skin. Baby' wrists can be exercised gently by practicing little turning motions carefully.
Stomach
Moving the hands in a clockwise direction starting from below the ribs, gently massage the abdomen using a tender circular motion, and excluding the genitalia area.
Legs Never prop a bottle for feeding baby; as this could lead baby to choke. Bottle feeding baby should be a nurturing and fulfilling experience for both mother and infant. Propping a bottle deprives baby of the warm feel of mother's body
Heels and Feet
A really good foot massage not only helps relax baby, but is also known to reduce and settle stomach pain. The parent can start by first applying gentle pressure on each toe, then giving the whole foot a soft press, and finally return to the toes again, gently caressing them. At the heels, slow, circular motions can be applied.
Back
Gently turn the baby on to the stomach. Always moving in one direction, apply deliberate and slow movements that include baby's head, neck, back and legs. Lightly stroke baby's neck, shoulders and back, using the fingertips to massage with circular movements. Remember not to massage the spinal cord, only place the hands gently over it; so that baby can feel the comforting warm sensation. Placing the hands at the top of baby's legs, use gentle soft strokes to work a path down towards the foot. Then start all over again, from the head to the toes, repeating the baby massage.
For more useful tips & hints, please browse for more information at our website
Article Source: www.amazines.com
Learn the Basics of Baby Massage
Baby massage has been in practice since ancient times and every premature baby massage article research review would extol the benefits of attending baby massage classes, and of using a baby massage kit. Babies love to be massaged, and all that a parent would require from a baby massage gallery, would be a soft warm towel, and some baby oil or lotion. Reading a baby massage research review would make first - time parents realize that a massage could mean anything as simple as a gentle after-bath rub, or a more organized infant massage.
The parent or caregiver could view a baby massage DVD on the techniques of a good baby massage, and attend baby massage classes where parents could watch baby massage for dummies to hone their skills. Typically baby bottles are designed to feed an infant, and come equipped with a nipple or teat. Choosing the right bottle for baby may require some research and browsing around, and testing for the right fit ( glass baby bottles that are of a compact size with flat sides are so much easier for baby to grip), but is well worth the time and effort spent. In fact, a well chosen bottle can help prevent baby suffering a stomach upset and a host of other problems. Ultimately, how you intend using the bottle will help you identify which bottle is correct for you.
Basic Baby Massage Techniques
A baby massage could vary from a casual tender rub down of baby's soft skin, to a more practiced, and focused massage. The basic technique for a message would deal mainly with how much pressure to use on baby's tender muscles and skin. To learn this would be first to close one's eyes and gently press the eyelids without feeling any discomfort. That is the amount of pressure that a parent or c aregiver must use when massaging baby. In the small areas, use little gentle strokes with the fingertips to caress baby's skin. In the larger areas, the palm of the hand can be used to massage baby's muscles softly under the skin. While massaging babies
Head Massage
Tenderly touch the forehead, the temples and work a gentle path down to the base of the cranium. Then with feather-light strokes, tenderly stroke the eyebrows, the eyelids, the cheeks and baby's little nose. Softly stroke the area around the mouth, and the ears.
Jaws
Very, very gently touch the front part of the neck, lightly stroking a path to the back part where baby' skin can be massaged lovingly. Then slowly move down to the shoulders, and placing both hands on them, tenderly caress baby's soft skin from the neck down to the shoulders in the direction of the chest
Shoulder And Arms
Encircling baby's arm in the shape of a ring with the fingers and thumb, begin lightly to stroke around the armpit, and then gently caress down along the arm. The elbow is a very sensitive area, so the parent has to exercise extreme caution while touching baby's skin. Baby' wrists can be exercised gently by practicing little turning motions carefully.
Stomach
Moving the hands in a clockwise direction starting from below the ribs, gently massage the abdomen using a tender circular motion, and excluding the genitalia area.
Legs Never prop a bottle for feeding baby; as this could lead baby to choke. Bottle feeding baby should be a nurturing and fulfilling experience for both mother and infant. Propping a bottle deprives baby of the warm feel of mother's body
Heels and Feet
A really good foot massage not only helps relax baby, but is also known to reduce and settle stomach pain. The parent can start by first applying gentle pressure on each toe, then giving the whole foot a soft press, and finally return to the toes again, gently caressing them. At the heels, slow, circular motions can be applied.
Back
Gently turn the baby on to the stomach. Always moving in one direction, apply deliberate and slow movements that include baby's head, neck, back and legs. Lightly stroke baby's neck, shoulders and back, using the fingertips to massage with circular movements. Remember not to massage the spinal cord, only place the hands gently over it; so that baby can feel the comforting warm sensation. Placing the hands at the top of baby's legs, use gentle soft strokes to work a path down towards the foot. Then start all over again, from the head to the toes, repeating the baby massage.
For more useful tips & hints, please browse for more information at our website
Article Source: www.amazines.com
Muscle Ache Relief Information.
By 'Markee Y'
Soft tissues are more prone to chronic as well as acute injuries. The most appropriate method of repairing damaged soft tissues is by using hands-on method. Talk to a chiropractor, an osteopath, a physiotherapist or a massage therapist since they are aware of the method of influencing the soft tissues and activating them. Those who haven’t availed of Massage Therapy are reluctant to use it and they normally become nervous. Generally, patients continue asking questions such as whether they have to remove their clothes, whether they should consult the massage therapist, or the action to take if they feel uncomfortable. These are normal questions which must be answered immediately.
First, search for a local massage therapist. Get references from your family or friends or visit the various massage clinics in your area. After you manage to locate a massage clinic, spend time consulting with the therapist. You have to give certain important details regarding your health and your present health problems. This is because the therapist has to investigate your problem, so as to select the appropriate methods for you, in order to guarantee your safety.
Besides personal details, you will also have to state your preference for the actual therapy. The therapist will attempt to fulfill all your preferences, so that you are comfortable. Normally, lavender, cajeput, and tea tree oils are used, but you can choose from amongst the fragrant oils. These oils are used to calm irritations and swellings. They also desensitize enter the nerve endings, thus reducing pain. In case, the therapist doesn’t question you, you are free to ask your doubts and likings.
Another issue is removing clothes. Therapists prefer the patient is unclothed, as it lets them easily access various parts of the body. But if you are uneasy about this condition, discuss it with your therapist. Moreover you won’t have to show off your entire body, as you will be draped. But if you prefer wearing clothes, ensure they are loose to let the therapist easily access the affected parts of your body. You just have to lie down on the massage table. However at times, you may be asked to shift to provide better access to the part being massaged. But if this position causes you unease, let your therapist know immediately. While the therapy is on, you can chat with the therapist or keep quiet. While shifting positions, there may be a need to converse but otherwise you can remain silent. Don’t fret if after the therapy, your body is oily. The therapist will assist you in cleaning these oils to prevent them from dirtying your clothes.
Article source: www.amazines.com
Soft tissues are more prone to chronic as well as acute injuries. The most appropriate method of repairing damaged soft tissues is by using hands-on method. Talk to a chiropractor, an osteopath, a physiotherapist or a massage therapist since they are aware of the method of influencing the soft tissues and activating them. Those who haven’t availed of Massage Therapy are reluctant to use it and they normally become nervous. Generally, patients continue asking questions such as whether they have to remove their clothes, whether they should consult the massage therapist, or the action to take if they feel uncomfortable. These are normal questions which must be answered immediately.
First, search for a local massage therapist. Get references from your family or friends or visit the various massage clinics in your area. After you manage to locate a massage clinic, spend time consulting with the therapist. You have to give certain important details regarding your health and your present health problems. This is because the therapist has to investigate your problem, so as to select the appropriate methods for you, in order to guarantee your safety.
Besides personal details, you will also have to state your preference for the actual therapy. The therapist will attempt to fulfill all your preferences, so that you are comfortable. Normally, lavender, cajeput, and tea tree oils are used, but you can choose from amongst the fragrant oils. These oils are used to calm irritations and swellings. They also desensitize enter the nerve endings, thus reducing pain. In case, the therapist doesn’t question you, you are free to ask your doubts and likings.
Another issue is removing clothes. Therapists prefer the patient is unclothed, as it lets them easily access various parts of the body. But if you are uneasy about this condition, discuss it with your therapist. Moreover you won’t have to show off your entire body, as you will be draped. But if you prefer wearing clothes, ensure they are loose to let the therapist easily access the affected parts of your body. You just have to lie down on the massage table. However at times, you may be asked to shift to provide better access to the part being massaged. But if this position causes you unease, let your therapist know immediately. While the therapy is on, you can chat with the therapist or keep quiet. While shifting positions, there may be a need to converse but otherwise you can remain silent. Don’t fret if after the therapy, your body is oily. The therapist will assist you in cleaning these oils to prevent them from dirtying your clothes.
Article source: www.amazines.com
Different Types of Massage
By Rebecca Pages
If you are thinking of getting a massage then the first thing you need to decide on is which type you want to get. There are different types of massage for different things, and in this article I'll be looking at three of them to see which is the best for you.
Swedish Massage
This type of massage is mainly for relaxation purposes. It is world famous as being one of the most relaxing types of massage that you can get. If you are looking for a way to unwind and reduce stress that occurs in the neck and back then Swedish massage is probably for you.
Sports massage
A sports massage is a different kind of massage because it is not about relaxation but instead about helping sports injuries to recover quicker. It is similar to a deep tissue massage in that it is a lot firmer massage and you might be sore the day after! In some cases it can help a sports injury, but you should always contact your physiotherapist and check it is suitable for your condition first.
Aromatherapy Massage
This is similar to a Swedish massage in that it is used for relaxation. Usually different oils are used with different aromatic properties.
These are just a few of the different types of massage, there are plenty more! Make sure that you choose the right one for you otherwise you might be disappointed if the massage isn't what you expect it to be. Never use a massage for medical purposes unless you have consulted your doctor first.
To learn more about aromatherapy massage or how to massage please use the link provided.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
If you are thinking of getting a massage then the first thing you need to decide on is which type you want to get. There are different types of massage for different things, and in this article I'll be looking at three of them to see which is the best for you.
Swedish Massage
This type of massage is mainly for relaxation purposes. It is world famous as being one of the most relaxing types of massage that you can get. If you are looking for a way to unwind and reduce stress that occurs in the neck and back then Swedish massage is probably for you.
Sports massage
A sports massage is a different kind of massage because it is not about relaxation but instead about helping sports injuries to recover quicker. It is similar to a deep tissue massage in that it is a lot firmer massage and you might be sore the day after! In some cases it can help a sports injury, but you should always contact your physiotherapist and check it is suitable for your condition first.
Aromatherapy Massage
This is similar to a Swedish massage in that it is used for relaxation. Usually different oils are used with different aromatic properties.
These are just a few of the different types of massage, there are plenty more! Make sure that you choose the right one for you otherwise you might be disappointed if the massage isn't what you expect it to be. Never use a massage for medical purposes unless you have consulted your doctor first.
To learn more about aromatherapy massage or how to massage please use the link provided.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
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