Print Article for : Neck And Shoulder Massage

Your Online Guide » Body Wellness » Complete Guide to Massage

[N106]Neck And Shoulder Massage

by Sharon Hopkins, Sha

A Neck and shoulder massage is primarily done to relieve the tension and stress around the neck and shoulder area. The importance of the neck and shoulder region lies in the fact that the neck is a flexible structure that connects the brain to the rest of the body. Tension in this important part of the body invariably causes overall discomfiture and slackness.

Moreover, anxiety and monotonous posture severely reduces the usual 360 degree mobility of the neck and shoulder. A neck and shoulder massage can eliminate stress and relieve the neck and shoulder of any signs of discomfort.

A neck and shoulder massage can be either rendered by self or by a professional therapist. This type of massage can be given either in a seated or lying down position. If traditional massage is considered expensive and time taking one can also check the latest electronic neck and shoulder massagers that may provide some beneficial results.

Neck and Shoulder Massage Techniques

Here is a compilation of neck and shoulder massage methods that can be administered by using self massage techniques or simple techniques one can administer for others:

Self Massage Techniques

For the Shoulder:

&bull Squeeze and knead one shoulder firmly with the opposite hand, then change sides and repeat.

&bull Apply either the Jojoba or Massage Oil directly on the skin to ensure smooth, frictionless movements.

Techniques to give others a quick massage for the Shoulder:

&bull Ask the person to lie sideways, with a pillow for head support and the top leg bending forward for steadiness

&bull Gently massage the arm and the side of the neck

&bull Hold the shoulder with both hands and gently move the shoulder up and down, then forward and backward.

&bull As the shoulder and arm relaxes it gets heavier, now start making circular movements with the fingertips under the shoulder blade to release tension.

&bull Replace the arm and effleurage and repeat with the other arm.

Self Massage For the Neck I:

&bull Hold the back of the neck with one hand and squeeze firmly to ease muscle tension.

&bull Shrug the shoulders and bring them up close to your ears.

&bull Hold the shoulders in this position and count up to 5 and release.

&bull Relax the shoulders down and feel the tension drain away.

&bull Repeat this exercise two more times.

Self Massage For the Neck II:

&bull Clasp the hands together and place them on the back of the neck.

&bull Squeeze hands together and press gently.

&bull Breathe deeply as you enjoy the stretch.

Self Massage For the Neck III:

&bull Using one hand, move the fingers in a circular motion on the neck on one side of the spine.

&bull Apply deep pressure one feels accumulated tension in this area.

&bull Repeat on the other side using the other hand.

&bull Breathe deeply and slowly to maximize the benefits of the neck and shoulder massage.

Benefits of Neck and Shoulder Massage

Here are some known benefits of a neck and shoulder massage:

&bull Massage brings renewed mobility in the neck and shoulder region.

&bull Alleviates stiff neck and/or shoulder muscles and promotes flexibility.

&bull Improved blood circulation and overall feeling of well being.

&bull Neck and shoulder massage relieves pain and stress.

&bull Relaxes and soothes the mind and body.

A neck and shoulder massage helps you relax, particularly if you've been working at a desk all day. It relieves you from pain and stress and charges you with energy you were looking for after a heavy work schedule or an outdoor journey. In this article you will learn how to give a neck and shoulder massage to get relief from stress and tension.

Steps for neck and shoulder massage -

For massaging neck and shoulder your partner should be lying on his or her back. Uncover the chest by folding down the towel or blanket.

1.Apply oil to your partner's chest, shoulders and neck.

2.Begin effleuraging by placing both hands on the upper chest, fingers facing towards each other. Now slowly pull your hands round the shoulders and under them, then bring your hands in to meet at the back of the skull. Repeat four or five times.

3.Gently knuckle the chest and shoulders in the sequence shown in the diagram on the left. To knuckle make your hands into relaxed fists, and move the knuckles make your hands into relaxed fist, and move the knuckles in circular movements. This sounds more difficult than it is.

4.Gently turn your partner's head to one side. Stroke along the top of the shoulder and the side of the neck with your first three fingers. Repeat three times.

5.Repeat the above sequence, but circle your fingers this time. Do this three times.

6.Turn your partner's head to the other side and repeat movements 4 and 5. Return the head to the centre.

7.Slide your hands down your partner's back as far as you can comfortably reach. Find the groove each side of the spine with your fingers. Pull your hands up the spine with a little pressure on the groove each side. Repeat three times.

8.Now you are going to stretch the neck ? these movements stretch out the muscles of the shoulders and neck and ease tension. If your partner is relaxed you will take all the weight of the head. If he or she is tense, go easy and make the movements slow and gentle. You don't want any pulled muscles.

9.Cup both hands under your partner's head, your fingers resting in the base of the skull. Lift the head slightly gently pull towards you. Lower the head slowly repeat.

10.Hold the back of the head in one hand and move it slowly towards the left shoulder while gently pressing down on the right shoulder with your other hand. Bring the head back to the centre and then repeat on the other side.

Finish with some effleurage movements as you began.

Note: This massage shouldn't be done on anyone with injuries to their shoulder or neck.

Hope you have now learned how to get relief from stress and tension with this natural method of pain relief.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

Article Source : Body Massage

About Author

Both Sharon Hopkins & Nick Mutt are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

Sharon Hopkins has sinced written about articles on various topics from Blood Pressure, Massage and Health. For More Health Article Visit :: . Sharon Hopkins's top article generates over 27100 views. to your Favourites.

Nick Mutt has sinced written about articles on various topics from Diabetes, Supplements and Fitness. Looking for some ? Check out the biggest. Nick Mutt's top article generates over 201000 views. to your Favourites.