Basic Tips for a Back Massage

Knowing how to give a good back massage has a number of perks. For those highly inclined to the work, it can offer a career opportunity. Those only interested in amateur work can become even more popular among friends and lovers for their ability to give relaxing back massages. While entry into the massage therapy field requires years of professional training, there are some basic tips for a back massage that are useful for those just starting out.

  1. Environment

    • Create a relaxing environment for the person who will receive the massage. This can mean anything from simply having him lie in a relaxing position to making the room over. Pleasantly scented incense or candles, low lighting and calming music or sounds are ways to create the right peaceful environment for massage. Firmer surfaces are better for massage, so have the person lie on a firm, comfortable couch, bed or mat. Pillows and cushions can work in a pinch.

    Communication

    • Knowing what part of the back is bothering the recipient most will help you give the most effective massage. Talk to her before you begin giving the massage, but continue communicating throughout the massage process. Make sure to also pay attention to how the person's body is communicating with you. Ask yourself where you are finding tense spots and pay extra attention to them. Listen for subtle communication from the person, such as the sounds she makes or the way she breathes when you massage different areas.

    Hand Techniques

    • The gentle stroking used by massage therapists is known as effleurage. Different types of effleurage work differently on the muscles of the back. The more area of your hand you use, the broader the area covered. The smaller amount of hand you use, the more targeted the massage can be. Begin by working with the whole of the hand, then move on to the heel of the hand and progress toward using just your thumb or middle finger on particularly tense spots. At the end of the massage you can use your forearms to really set in the massage work you have done.

    Equipment

    • While no special equipment is required to give a back massage, you can use some accessories to make the massage that much better. Oil reduces friction between skin. Using this in moderate amounts will make for a more comfortable massage, but using too much will limit the effectiveness of the massage. You can use tennis balls to apply an appropriate amount of pressure. Towels also provide a way to create the right amount of pressure while reducing friction between your hands and the recipient's back.