5 Easy Self-Massage Techniques to Relieve Tax Day Tension

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Tax Day can cause a lot of stress, no matter how well-prepared you are. Scrambling to find documents you need for your taxes or finding out that you owe more than expected can easily cause muscle tension and ruin your day.

Once you've filed your taxes, it's time to kick back and enjoy some relaxation. Congratulate yourself on getting through another Tax Day with some massage therapy and a spa-themed evening.

Too tired to head out? You don't need to visit a massage therapist to ease muscle tension. Instead, create a soothing, spa-like environment at home, and give the following stress relief massage techniques a try.

DIY Neck Massage Therapy

Having sore muscles in your neck can make it hard to turn your head or get comfortable while sitting or standing. If you've been sitting with your head tilted while working on your taxes, you might feel neck pain. A self neck massage can provide relief and ease these tight muscles.

You don't need to apply a lot of pressure when doing this massage. Instead, apply medium or light pressure to your neck using your knuckles. Place them just below your ear on the left side, and gently move down to your shoulder. Repeat this on the right side to relieve neck tension.

If you can feel knotted muscles in your neck, it's ok to apply more pressure. Press firmly using your knuckles, and turn your head in the opposite direction. For example, turn your head to the right when massaging your left side to relieve neck pain.

Head Massage

Neck pain isn't the only discomfort you might be feeling from filing your taxes. You might also end up with a headache. Doing a self massage can help stimulate blood circulation and ease headaches.

How can you relieve tension that's causing a stress headache? A stress relief massage focused on your head should do the trick. When doing this kind of massage, apply enough pressure to create a soothing feeling.

Place your hands on your head, then move them from your hairline down to the back of your neck. Next, place your fingertips near your ears, and move them up each side of your head. After repeating these steps as often as needed, move your hands over your scalp in circular motions.

Shoulder Massage

Neck and shoulder tension result from strained muscles in this part of your body. You might develop muscle knots in your upper body from the way you sit or stand. Massaging these areas helps improve blood flow, leading to pain relief.

When doing a shoulder massage, apply gentle pressure to each shoulder. Massage the top of your left shoulder or right shoulder for a few minutes. Use a circular motion to relieve stress in the surrounding muscles. Repeat this technique on the other shoulder. Massage your shoulders for about 15 minutes total or until your muscles feel relaxed.

Foot Massage

If you've got sore feet, a foot massage can help relieve pain. Foot massages can be easier to do than massages in other areas, such as your back or even your shoulder. Make sure you're sitting in a comfortable spot, such as on your bed, for this DIY massage.

A simple foot massage you can do at home involves using your thumbs to ease pain. Hold one foot with both hands on either side, then place your thumbs on your toe pads. Use moderate pressure while moving your thumbs down to the ball of your foot. Press down for a few seconds, then move your thumbs down to the arch and heel of your foot while continuing to apply pressure.

Tennis Ball Massage

You don't always have to use your own hands or fingers for a massage. Applying pressure with a tennis ball can allow you to enjoy a deeper massage. Moving tense areas of your body over tennis balls can help improve blood flow and ease stress and anxiety.

Place a tennis ball on the floor, then put the sore area of your body on top of it. Roll your hip, back, hamstrings, calves, or other sore muscles over the tennis ball. This motion helps ease muscle tension.

You can do this type of massage with a foam roller if you have one handy. Just place the foam roller under the targeted area of your body, and apply pressure as you would with a tennis ball.

Create a Home Spa-like Atmosphere

Although you can do these stress relief massage techniques anywhere in your home, setting up a soothing environment can help you make the most of your relaxing evening. Play some soft music, do a simple meditation, and light a few candles to create a serene atmosphere that helps you unwind, whether you're massaging one area or doing an entire body massage.

Add Blissy products for extra comfort and relaxation

You might not be going to massage therapists for a Thai massage, Swedish massage, or hot stone massage, but that's ok. You can enjoy the benefits of massages in the comfort of your home. As part of your spa-like environment, include Blissy Silk Robes and Pillowcases. These luxurious items are made from the finest silk.

Enjoy a Comfortable, Stress-Free Evening

Blissy offers a fine selection of silk pillowcases and robes that are ideal for creating a comfortable environment that lowers your blood pressure and helps you relax. Slip into a soft, luxurious Blissy Silk Robe after trying out a few stress relief massage techniques. When you're done, you'll have a smooth surface to rest your head on with our Blissy Silk Pillowcases. Have friends and family who could also use some stress relief tips? Share this post, so they can give these DIY massage therapy techniques a try!