Massage has been around for thousands of years, and is a lovely way to care for yourself (self-massage) and others. You can just learn a few massage routines with no oils needed, or use base oils with optional essential oil blends. Massage can increase circulation, reduce swollen lymph glads and help to heal injuries or pain, although you should not massage over broken skin or tumours. Aavoid essential oils for pregnancy/nursing and don’t use near pets in bedrooms if they sleep with you – air rooms before allowing them back in.
- Healing Massage is a book of simple techniques to soothe pain, by a qualified massage therapist. Find techniques proven to help including Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, sports massage and acupressure. You’ll also find soothing ways to help tense shoulders and hips, carpal tunnel syndrome, digestive issues, eyestrain and anxiety. And tips on the application of heat and ice, along with aromatherapy.
- Massage for Beginners is an illustrated guide, by licensed massage therapist Rachel Beider. Let her teach you healing techniques, to offer a powerful wellness tool to family, friends and yourself.
- A Little Book of Self-Care: Trigger Points offers 40 simple exercises to target long-term pain, by releasing tender knots of connective tissue. The author (who runs a pain care clinic in London and Leeds) helps you locate trigger points, then shows how to apply pressure, and how long to sustain it and how often to repeat. Often with life-changing results.
Ayurvedic Head Massage for Beginners is a beautifully illustrated guide to learn this ancient method of India to enhance health and beauty (headaches to hair growth). The book includes safety considerations like vital areas of caution in the neck and head, along with caution on herbal infused oils.