A chair massage could be a good substitute when a regular massage (with body parts unclothed) would be inappropriate or inconvenient. This can easily be done in a more public setting (at work, social gatherings, etc.). The massage procedures listed below: a) reduce tension; b) increase circulation in the head, neck, shoulders, and upper back; c) will in many cases, help relieve a headache.
The massage subject should be sitting comfortably or in a chair where the head and upper back are in easy access. Both feet should be fully supported on the floor, or on a firm surface. All extra clothing should be removed (jacket, tie, etc.).
- Relax yourself—A couple of deep breaths, a prayer
- Relax your hands—Shake them
- Place hands on receiver’s shoulders close to base of neck.
- Place thumbs on either side of spine and work down. (Pressure, Rotate, Rotate, Release—Do 3 times) Soothe the area.
- Thumbs on either side of spine one inch away; Push in and toward spine. (Rotate, Rotate, Hold 5 seconds… Release) Work down the spine feeling for tension.
- Slide thumbs back up.
- Knead shoulders.
- Finger scales on shoulders (Do several times)
- Forearms on shoulders Remember use fleshy part
- Elbow on shoulders then soothe.
- Open C’s on neck. Hand on forehead to support head. (Do 3 times)
- Squeeze spine of neck.
- Place thumb in occipital and rotate head slowly into thumb.
- Change thumbs and rotate head in the other direction.
- Pull fingers up under the skull behind the ear (Rotate, Rotate, Release) Move toward spine and repeat.
- Squeeze for headaches. (Pressure, Hold, Release) (Do 3 times)
- Knead neck with both hands then soothe.
- Repeat #4 and soothe
- Lift arms and shake.
- Hacking then soothe.
- Rub heel of hands together quickly until they become warm. Place over the eyes and hold. (Do, not press down on the eyes)
Tips to Remember
- Relax
- Gentle but firm
- Use your body weight—One foot forward
- In all massage strokes maintain rhythm and even pressure.
