Who doesn't like a good massage? Most mamas I have had the opportunity to work with are in dire need of some rejuvenation and relaxation regardless of when they birthed their babies. Unfortunately it can be challenging to make the time and have the resources to receive a massage on a regular basis. Fortunately we can practice self massage and receive similar benefits- relaxation, reduced stress, reduced tension, better sleep, reduced emotional upset, the list goes on.
How do I practice self massage?
Your self massage routine can be incredibly simple:
1. In a warm room, apply a small amount of warm oil in a loving way to your whole body. The most important thing is to apply the oil with love and appreciation of your body- but if you want to get technical, apply the oil with circular strokes on your joints and up and down strokes on your long bones, with clockwise strokes on your belly. If you have areas of tension, this is your opportunity to dig into those areas of tension- you know the perfect amount of pressure and speed for your body. Generally your strokes should move toward your heart.
2. Let the oil sit on your skin for 10-20 minutes while you brush your teeth, read a lovely book, listen to music, meditate, or do some other activity that supports your body and mind to relax.
3. Take a nice warm shower or bath to rinse off the extra oil and to allow the oil to penetrate deeply into your skin.
4. Pat dry with your towel.
5. Repeat daily for the greatest nourishment and rejuvenation. The more we can nourish ourselves, the better we are able to care for our families and do our work in the world. Self massage is great for the whole family:)
What Oils should I use?
For Dry skin or during the late fall early winter: Untoasted Sesame Oil
For sensitive, oily skin, or during summer season: Almond Oil or a blend of sesame and coconut oil, during hot summer season coconut oil can be used
For moist skin or during spring season use slightly less oil and use the following oils:
Almond oil, Olive Oil, Mustard seed oil, or sunflower oil
If at any point in time your skin does not react well to the above oils, try a different oil. Other options include: Jojoba Oil, Rosehip seed oil, Marula Oil... basically any oil you would eat, you can put on your skin depending on your skin of course.
I'll write more on this later but if you have any questions regarding self massage leave a comment below or send me a message.
Happy New Year!!! And may all mamas be nourished!!!
How do I practice self massage?
Your self massage routine can be incredibly simple:
1. In a warm room, apply a small amount of warm oil in a loving way to your whole body. The most important thing is to apply the oil with love and appreciation of your body- but if you want to get technical, apply the oil with circular strokes on your joints and up and down strokes on your long bones, with clockwise strokes on your belly. If you have areas of tension, this is your opportunity to dig into those areas of tension- you know the perfect amount of pressure and speed for your body. Generally your strokes should move toward your heart.
2. Let the oil sit on your skin for 10-20 minutes while you brush your teeth, read a lovely book, listen to music, meditate, or do some other activity that supports your body and mind to relax.
3. Take a nice warm shower or bath to rinse off the extra oil and to allow the oil to penetrate deeply into your skin.
4. Pat dry with your towel.
5. Repeat daily for the greatest nourishment and rejuvenation. The more we can nourish ourselves, the better we are able to care for our families and do our work in the world. Self massage is great for the whole family:)
What Oils should I use?
For Dry skin or during the late fall early winter: Untoasted Sesame Oil
For sensitive, oily skin, or during summer season: Almond Oil or a blend of sesame and coconut oil, during hot summer season coconut oil can be used
For moist skin or during spring season use slightly less oil and use the following oils:
Almond oil, Olive Oil, Mustard seed oil, or sunflower oil
If at any point in time your skin does not react well to the above oils, try a different oil. Other options include: Jojoba Oil, Rosehip seed oil, Marula Oil... basically any oil you would eat, you can put on your skin depending on your skin of course.
I'll write more on this later but if you have any questions regarding self massage leave a comment below or send me a message.
Happy New Year!!! And may all mamas be nourished!!!
RSS Feed
