Neck And Shoulder Massage

What is Neck and Shoulder Massage

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.

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