Massage Moves to Try at Home

Massage therapy may seem like a luxury, but it offers significant health benefits. Learn how to incorporate massage at home.

Trying these three massage techniques can help improve how your body feels at the end of the day – especially if exercise or work puts your body through the wringer. Plus, it's free of charge. Learn these simple massage moves to get the ball rolling.

Cramped Feet: Take a tennis ball or frozen plastic water bottle and roll it under your foot to relieve any built-up tension from the day.

Tight Back: Lie down and place a tennis ball directly under the problem area along your back. Hold the position until tension releases. Remember to breathe deeply.

Stiff Neck: Find a tight spot in your neck. Hold your fingers together and move them in a circular motion along the bottom of the neck toward the shoulder. Work on releasing the tension that may have worked itself into a knot.

For chronic issues, such as back pain, depression and certain types of cancer, consider visiting a trained massage therapist. Massages may help reduce pain and depression, possibly even boosting serotonin, according to the American Massage Therapy Association.

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