Using Facial Massage for Relaxation and Health

Any type of massage is beneficial to the mind and body. People who receive massage regularly experience the benefits of relaxation and also take advantage of a calming effect. Massage can actually induce the brain to release endorphins, the hormones responsible for the feel good effect. Blood circulation can also be improved through massage, eliminating toxins and increasing the health benefits that come from good blood flow.

Massage is very versatile. Not only can it be applied to the body as a whole, but it can also be confined to a specific area. Techniques such as facial massage can provide targeted results of relaxation and deep muscle stimulation. In fact, facial massage has been studied as a viable anti-aging technique. Massaging facial tissue can stimulate new cell production and encourage the natural sloughing process of the skin. This brings newer and younger cells to the surface, decreasing wrinkling and increasing the elasticity of the skin.
When you receive your first facial massage, you can expect to have your face cleansed first. When the warm water hits the pores, it encourages them to open up and release dirt and oils. This prepares your face for the next step in the process, which is moisturising. Your massage therapist will use the moisturiser suitable for your particular skin type. This not only allows your skin to soften, but also provides a smooth and supple surface for your massage, which decreases friction as the therapist begins.
As the therapist gets into the actual facial massage, the steps are fairly standard.
1. First, your head is cupped by the therapist’s hands. The thumbs will generally rest on your forehead with the fingers sitting on your cheeks. The therapist will then begin massaging the forehead using vertical movements of the thumbs.
2. The massage therapist will then apply pressure to the forehead area. A light touch is used between the eyebrows and the therapist will creep up towards your hairline.
3. The therapist will then move to your temple area, beginning a circular motion that will move down the face, through the cheek area and all the way to your chin.
4. Your massage therapist will then proceed back up toward the top of your face, moving along the cheekbone and ending back at your temples.
5. The therapist finishes by concentrating on the muscles surrounding your mouth and nose, again directing the motion back toward your temples.
You can imagine how relaxing this process can be. A skilled massage therapist will leave you feeling rested and refreshed from your facial massage. Your skin will be softer and more supple, muscles will be relaxed and you will benefit from the anti-aging properties as well.