Self Healing Massage Techniques For Instant Stress Relief!

As a massage therapist I can say without doubt that rubbing of the neck gives very fast relief from pain and stress. The neck is the junction between the brain and body. Stress seems to affect the muscles of this area more than any other place. Ever notice how tight your neck gets especially when sitting, standing, or if you've been stressed? When you use the healing power of your own touch you reverse the downward cycle of pain - first physically, then mentally. All things are connected - mental, physical, spiritual and emotional. They all play off each other. 

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First put on some nice, soothing music. Then pour a tablespoon full of coconut oil or safflower oil (I always prefer natural lubricants vs. synthetic, petroleum based creams) into a bowl and find a relaxing place to sit or lay. If you want you may add essential oils like lavender, rosemary, or lemongrass. Another great option to oil would be a product from the coop called Arnica salve. Arnica is a muscle relaxing herb used for external purposes only. Internally, I use mind calming, nerve melting herbs like skullcap, valerian or hops that really help with stress. (I prefer natural remedies over artificial medicines). Dip your fingers into the oil and rub some of it on your neck. Work it in until you've got the perfect "slide" and consistency. Feel is a big key here. Find the tight bands of muscle in the front, sides and back of the neck. Rub the bands lengthwise, circularly and crosswise. Be careful not to pinch off the carotid artery which is located just to the right of the Adams apple in that "groove". Cup your hand on the back of the neck and squeeze, pull, and rub. While you're rubbing, roll the head around, stretching and working the muscles it at the same time. Be careful but thorough. Breathe! The breath is the spirit of life. Think positive thoughts and relax. Rub your neck and shoulder muscles for at least 15 minutes. 

Now rub your ears, hands and feet. These are the reflex hot spots on the body. Rub these areas and feel for sore points. Also feel for tight bands and knots. These are indicators of places that need attention. It's that simple. Rubbing the ears is called auricular acupressure. Rubbing the hands and feet is called reflexology. You can stimulate your ears, hands and feet everyday on your own! Just rub them! When you do your own healing, you take the bull by the horns and create your own good health! 

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