Giving a relaxing massage to someone can really strengthen the bond between you. Whether it is between two lovers, friends, or a parent and child, the simple act of giving a massage is always appreciated.

If you do decide to give one to a friend, be sure to learn some of the common techniques used. Here are seven of the most popular hand techniques:

1. Upper Shoulder Squeeze

Simply stand behind the person and give an upper shoulder squeeze towards the triangular shaped muscles on both sides of the shoulders. This muscle is known for holding lots of stress and toxins; repeat 3 times, slowly improving the pressure.

2. Finger Kneading

For this one keep the fingers together and straight. You can then either rock the fingers back and forth or do some basic kneading. Keep going down the neck and over the shoulder muscles and right down the back. Continue doing this move 3 times and go on to the opposite side.

3. Lobster Claws

This method uses the whole hand. Essentially you squeeze or knead muscles in your hand, as if you had a lobster claw for a hand. Rub the muscles on the back, alternating hands and going at a smooth movement. Repeat this 20 times.

4. Head Massage

In order to do a head massage, put fingers at the hairline at the back of the head. Start at the middle and make small circles with fingers heading to the outside. Keep doing these small circles up the back of the head and massage the scalp, move back down once you've hit the top.

5. Fist Tapping

Softly tap on the back of the shoulders with the smaller part of your fist and cover the whole shoulders and back.

6. Karate Chops

Open the hands and perform karate chops on the shoulder muscles and upper back.

7. Finishing Strokes

These are typically delicate but extremely important. You never want to end a session by doing hard and heavy strokes. By doing soft and gentle strokes to end the session it can help the person recover quicker.

A lot of people love calming relaxation music in the background as well. Some love candles or scented oils, and some like warm rocks put on the back in between massages of various body parts.

As you can see, this is the best way to unwind. Maybe you can get your significant other or a friend to give you one even. If this isn't a possibility you can always give yourself a massage. You may either learn how to use the hands or there are lots of less expensive Relaxation Massagers available to help you out.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a professional Relaxation Massage with an experienced Massage Specialist, book a Relaxation Massage treatment with Sheree Evans | Massage Specialists.

Call 1300 OUR MASSAGE (1300 687 627).