The first massage ever depicted showed up on the Tomb of Akmanthor in BC 2330. Since then, everyone from the Thai to the Chinese, Swedish and beyond have perfected their own type of massage. To give the ultimate massage, it's best to balance time-honored tradition with scientific discovery to dig in straight to the core of the problem.
Step One: Massage the Pressure Points
The body is covered in pressure points which when massaged gently increase circulation and reduce specific pains and aches. The spine is a good place to start. Massage with your fingertips one inch away from the spine and work your way up to the neck. Now walk your fingers along the ridge of the neck to release tension and relieve headaches.
Step Two: Trigger Pains
Trigger pains are small, localized cramps of the muscle, often referred to as knots. Trigger pains are recurring, stiff, and very uncomfortable.
Massage with force, using your elbow, knee, or palm of your hand to push on the area.
Massage the muscle in one direction.
Keep sessions short - 12-20 strokes.
Step Three: Relaxation
For relaxation, finish up a massage with techniques from the Thai and Swedish. .
Flowing strokes: Pull your hands along the back, legs, and arms to warm the body and improve circulation for healing.
Kneading: Knead soft muscles, in the same motion as kneading bread dough to relieve stress and soreness caused by sitting for long periods of time.
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