A simple hand massage is an effective way to provide an overall sense of relaxation if a full-body massage can't be performed due to time constraints or a physical contraindication. A study published in the April 2010 issue of the Journal of Clinical Nursing" found that hand massage provided consolation and relaxation in individuals who recently lost a loved one.
Step 1
Apply a light coating of massage oil or cream to prevent friction and ensure fluid strokes.
Step 2
Warm up the hand. The Alternative Health Guide suggests stimulating circulation by rubbing your palm over the back of the recipient's hand, then repeating this movement on the recipient's palm.
Step 3
Perform light, fluid strokes with the tips of your fingers. These strokes should go from the tips of the recipient's fingers to the wrist, to ensure that lymph and waste drains toward the heart.
Step 4
Place your fingers on any tender areas of the hand and move them in a circle on the skin. Increase pressure as you perform this circular massage to relax the underlying muscles.
Step 5
Stretch the fingers, moving each one through its range of motion. Before you perform this range of motion, pull on and gently squeeze each finger to warm it up.
Step 6
Grab the hand in segments and squeeze. Squeeze the palm and each of the fingers. Pay special attention to the flesh between the thumb and the index finger, as this area can be especially tender and may have to be squeezed extra hard.
Step 7
Gently tap the palm and the back of the hand with your fingers, as if you were playing the piano. This stroke is known as tapotement. It invigorates the underlying tissue and brings blood to the area.
Step 8
End the massage by sandwiching the client's hand between your hands. Gently squeeze to provide a sense of relaxation.
Tips and Warnings
- If you don't have massage cream or oil, use a small amount of olive oil to provide lubrication.
- Be sure the recipient doesn't have any medical conditions or injuries that can be made worse by massage. For example, it the wrist was recently sprained or if the client has rheumatoid arthritis, massage should be avoided.
Things You'll Need
- Massage oil or cream
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