Learning hand massage offers a means to provide supportive touch. Hand massage may provide stress reduction and pain relief in addition to the human comfort of shared touch. In some situations, such as during a hospital visit, a hand massage is an accessible way to offer touch because the recipient can receive the massage in just about any position, with no equipment required. Massage training programs include hand massage. Exploring techniques on websites and practicing hand massage on your own hands are avenues to perfect hand massage from home.
Step 1
Study hand massage techniques. Observing hand massage in person--if you know a massage practitioner or if there's a class in your area--gives you the opportunity to experience the techniques visually and ask questions. Take a class or observe multiple sessions to learn technique, pacing and communication to adjust the pressure of the touch. Watching videos also provides the exposure needed to learn the skills.
Step 2
Study pictures and drawings of hand massage strokes and pressure points. These visual aids will help you learn the locations on the hand where you'll practice specific techniques.
Step 3
Print out diagrams of hand massage techniques and pressure points on the hand to keep in a notebook or post on a wall where you practice for reference as you learn.
Step 4
Enlist volunteers for hand massage practice. Ask the volunteer to let you know if she wants firmer or lighter pressure and to let you know immediately if there's any pain.
Tips and Warnings
- Take a massage course or attend a workshop (optional). Carry unscented hand wipes with you to use on yourself and recipients prior to hand massage. Don't massage broken skin or any kind of wound, lesion or rash. Don't massage hands that have blood clots, tumors or injured bones, muscles or tendons. Use light pressure on the nails. Keep your fingernails short and smooth the edges with a nail file. Test them by rubbing them across your skin to assure they have no rough edges or sharp spots. Use unscented oils or lotions--and products made without nut oils--unless you're certain the recipient doesn't have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances or foods. Massage schools teach hand massage, and some colleges and universities offer courses or workshops in massage--sometimes specifically for hand massage. Volunteer to give hand massage through a hospice or nursing home for practice and to benefit others.
- Massage is not a substitute for medical care. Consult your primary care doctor for any health questions.
Things You'll Need
- Books, DVDs or websites on hand massage
- Volunteer recipients
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