Step 12 for Back Massage

Apply twists. Come back around to the person’s side. Reach around the far hip with one hand, while the other hand rests on the neat hip. With a fluid motion, pull one hand towards you as the other one pushes away; in the middle, they should slide against each other, in opposite directions. Repeat this stroke up the back until you reach the shoulder area, then come back down. Repeat 3 times.

Step 11 for Back Massage

Slide the hands back up and repeat two more times. Move a bit farther to the sides (away from the spine) each time.

Step 10 for Back Massage

When you reach the top of the hips, allow your thumbs to linger there. Use steady pressure before beginning a new stroke.

Step 9 for Back Massage

Bring both thumbs to the upper back. You can do this on either side of the spine. With constant pressure, slowly begin to slide your thumbs down the back. Remember to be careful over the lower back, where there are no ribs protecting internal organs.

Step 8 for Back Massage

Gradually move over and continue on the other side. Do not do directly on the spine.

Step 7 for Back Massage

Stand above their head, Use an extended thumb to make upward strokes between the shoulder blasé and the backbone (from the hips, towards the head). As one thumb slides off, the other one begins it stroke upwards.

Step 6 for Back Massage

Use muscle lifting on the trapezius. This is the muscle that connects the neck to the shoulders. Continue rubbing as you move around the head. You should do on the last knuckling, instead of bringing it back down. Repeat the palm circles, muscle lifting, and knuckling on the other side of the back.

Step 5 for Back Massage

Lightly drag the knuckles back.

Step 4 for Back Massage

Form the hands into loose fists. With your arms straight and your knuckles and fingers in contact with the back, slide up and continue up and over the shoulders.

Step 3 for Back Massage

Use your knuckles on their back. Repeat 2-3 times. Do not apply pressure on the lower back, and remember to avoid the spine.

Step 2 for Back Massage

As you finish the stroke, twist the wrist to achieve a lifting motion on the muscle. As you bring your thumb and forefinger together, the outside of your hand (along the little finger) should be running along the back. Keep alternating hands with a windshield wiper motion.
 

Step 1 for Back Massage

 Move your hand in the direction of your thumb, applying pressure and gradually closing the gap between your thumb and forefinger.

About to Give a Back Massage

Tell the person you are about to begin. Ask them to let you know if anything you are doing painful or uncomfortable. Place massage oil in a cupped hand. Warm it by rubbing it between your hands.


Spread the oil around. Do this across the person’s back with light strokes. Don’t forget the shoulders and neck area.


Make palm circles. Place one hand on the lower back and put your other hand over it. With arms extended, begin making small circles by going up the back and down again. Staying on one side of the spine, repeat this 2-3 times. The movement should come from the waist, rather than from the shoulders.

Steps for Back Massage

• Place a pillow or cushion where the person’s chest will be.
  
• Spread the sheet over to catch any excess oil.
  
• Have the person prepare by loosening or removing their pants. They should do this so that the lower back can be reached. Ask them to take off their top as well. If privacy is a concern, step out of the room and have them wrap a towel around their chest (just underneath the arms) so that the ends are at the back.
  
• Have them lie face down. The pillow should be underneath the breast bone.
  
• Fold one of the towels and place it underneath the forehead. This will help to keep the person’s neck straight.
  
• Fold one of the towels and place it underneath the ankles. This will support the person’s lower back. If the person is wearing pants, spread another towel over them and tuck the towel into the waistline. This will prevent the oil from staining them.