Magazine for the professional nail industry.
Issue link: http://nailsmag.epubxp.com/i/794232
manicure/pedicure services 79 Step 1: Effleurage Begin the massage with a teaspoon size dollop of ProSpa Moisture Whip Massage Cream. Provide gentle, even, pressure as you apply Effleurage strokes to distribute the cream evenly. Use slow, smooth, and continuous linear strokes with the palm of your hands. Place your fingers together and relax your hands, and with continuous follow the contour of the hand and arm. Using slow sustained strokes, increase pressure slightly when moving toward the wrist. Rotate your working hand under the wrist and stroke back toward finger tips. Be sure to alternate hands while maintaining continuous contact for six strokes. Step 2: Kneading Kneading is performed using thumbs, enforced fingers, heels of hands, or full hands. With a slow, rhythmic motion, press down on a muscle (directly on a bone can be very painful), rolling it away from the bone it is attached to, and then towards it. Begin kneading the palm of the hand to stimulate circulation. Using your thumbs press down into the center of the palm and with a slow rhythmic motion, roll in opposite directions toward the sides of the hand. Knead the forearm using both hands. With one hand, press your thumb to the top of the forearm and roll toward the side of the forearm while simultaneously using your fingers to knead the underside of the arm. Start at the wrist and alternate hands to move up toward the elbow and then back down to the wrists. Compared to Effleurage, this is a more effective way of stimulating circulation of blood and lymph to the area and working out old tension patterns. Step 3: Acupressure Before you begin: • do not perform massage if client is diabetic, has high blood pressure, varicose veins or phlebitis • ask you client if they have any problems with her feet requiring special attention or consideration • do not perform acupressure techniques on clients who are pregnant • be sure client's entire leg is supported during the massage, particularly the ankle and knee • maintain contact throughout the massage Begin by using your thumb(s) to press into the webbing between the thumb and index finger. Slowly "sink" into the pressure point and hold for approximately 10 seconds. Release slowly. Continue using acupressure to relieve stress and tension. Following the same method, apply pressure to the crease of the wrist, just inside the edge of the wrist bone and hold for 10 seconds. Release slowly and repeat on the other hand. Incorporating these techniques and bringing in high- quality products in your salon can be an easy way to take your services to the next level.