The neck and the back are the most common areas of the body
that are prone to stiffness and accumulated tension. Continuous
build up of stress and tension in the neck and shoulder region
lead to stiff necks, aching shoulders and headaches .Desk jobs,
long working hours and incorrect sitting position may all add
to a discomforting neck and shoulder.
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:
Squeeze and knead one shoulder firmly with the opposite
hand, then change sides and repeat.
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:
Ask the person to lie sideways, with a pillow for head
support and the top leg bending forward for steadiness
Gently massage the arm and the side of the neck
Hold the shoulder with both hands and gently move the
shoulder up and down, then forward and backward.
As the shoulder and arm relaxes it gets heavier, now
start making circular movements with the fingertips under
the shoulder blade to release tension.
Replace the arm and effleurage and repeat with the
other arm.
Self Massage For the Neck I:
Hold the back of the neck with one hand and squeeze
firmly to ease muscle tension.
Shrug the shoulders and bring them up close to your
ears.
Hold the shoulders in this position and count up to 5
and release.
Relax the shoulders down and feel the tension drain
away.
Repeat this exercise two more times.
Self Massage For the Neck II:
Clasp the hands together and place them on the back of
the neck.
Squeeze hands together and press gently.
Breathe deeply as you enjoy the stretch.
Self Massage For the Neck III:
Using one hand, move the fingers in a circular motion
on the neck on one side of the spine.
Apply deep pressure one feels accumulated tension in
this area.
Repeat on the other side using the other hand.
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:
Massage brings renewed mobility in the neck and
shoulder region.
Alleviates stiff neck and/or shoulder muscles and
promotes flexibility.
Improved blood circulation and overall feeling of well
being.
Neck and shoulder massage relieves pain and stress.
Relaxes and soothes the mind and body.
About the Author
Sharon Hopkins manages sites related to Massage Health
Therapy which explains how artistic hand strokes on the
body can rejuvenate your mind and body scientifically. She
also writes for Aromatherapy, Yoga besides many other
health related sites.
Take a 14
Day Free email Course on Massage. You'll learn
tips to give yourself a massage as well as your
partner. Work out the tight muscles, the soreness, the stress,
and add some spark to your relationship. You'll also learn a
number of massage oil recipes so that you will always have the
right oil for the right situation or occasion.