Massage is far more than a mere luxury. It may reduce the stress that contributes to heart disease and digestive disorders…relieve pain by manipulating pressure points that relax muscles…and raise levels of mood-boosting brain chemicals.
Good news: You can take your health into your own hands—literally—with simple self-massage techniques.
What to do: Always apply firm but comfortable pressure, repeating each sequence of motions for three to five minutes. Unless noted, techniques can be done while sitting or lying down. Use scented lotion or oil if desired—lavender and rose are calming…peppermint and rosemary are stimulating.
SINUS OR TENSION HEADACHE
STOMACH UPSET OR CONSTIPATION
- Lying on your back, place one hand flat on your abdomen (over or under your clothing) just above your navel. Pressing gently but firmly, slowly move your hand clockwise to circle the navel.
NECK AND/OR SHOULDER PAIN
- Sitting, reach your left hand over your right shoulder until it touches above the shoulder blade. With fingertips, firmly knead muscles, focusing on any sore spots. Repeat on other side.
- Sitting, place fingertips of both hands on the back of the neck at the base of the skull. Pressing firmly, move fingers up and down along the sides of the vertebrae. To protect major blood vessels, do not massage front or sides of the neck.
FOOT SORENESS