Start your at-home massage session by getting your blood flowing — take a warm bath or have a good stretch.
Afterwards, take advantage of your elevated body temperature by applying a nourishing body oil, which will now be absorbed more effectively. Supercharge it by adding a few drops of essential oil — lavender for relaxation, juniper berry for circulation or citrus to energise. Then begin your massage.
For desk workers, problem areas tend to be the lower back, neck and hips. Use your knuckles, applying pressure to knead out tension and lactic acid build-up. Deep, considered, circular movements are better than vigorous ones and always try to work along the muscle, as if you are stretching it.
If it is the lower body you are dealing with, use upward movements towards the heart and be careful not to over rotate when massaging your lower back. Want to emulate the effects of professional fingertips? Try kneading out particular niggles by rolling a tennis ball between your body and a hard surface, or work out deep knots with a foam roller.
While these methods are great for daily body-boosting or post-exercise recovery, persistent issues are best tended to by a trained masseuse. Regular treatments help relieve pain and build a better support system to tackle future issues.
Massages with Tetyana Probyy-Holova at Neville, from £140 (nevillehairandbeauty.net)
