Tip of the week: Give a massage like a pro

Start soft. “Skin responds to even the lightest touch,” so begin by softly trailing your fingers over the person’s shoulders, back, and arms.

Take a stance. “Position is key” when increasing the pressure. Place a chair in front of a table, with a pillow in between. Have whomever is receiving the massage “straddle” the chair, placing both hands atop the table.

Pick a side. Work one side at a time, initially squeezing and releasing the shoulder muscles “to get circulation flowing.” Take your right palm and make a “circular motion clockwise out from the spine.” “Never rub the spine”—only around it.

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Don’t neglect the arms. “Knead down” both arms, moving toward the person’s hand. “Work your thumbs” over the palm while gently pressing your fingers into the back of the hand.

Source: Allure