Massage Oil Recipes

For an original, special massage, prepare your massage oil yourself. Free massage oil recipes.

Coconut And Pineapple Massage Oil - Refreshing massage oil ...

Cold And Flu Massage Oil - For cold and flu relief ...

Foot Massage Oil - Easy to make foot massage oil ...

Muscle Massage Oil - Soothing massage oil ...

Pain Relief Massage Oil - Soothing massage oil ...

Romantic Massage Oil - Special massage oil ...

Stress Relief Massage Oil - Soothing massage oil ...

Chocolate Massage Bar - Hmmm, chocolate massage

Coconut Pineapple Massage Oil

Coconut Pineapple Massage Oil Recipe

1 cup carrier oil (olive oil, sweet almond oil, or grapeseed oil)
1/4 teaspoon coconut fragrance oil
1/4 teaspoon pineapple fragrance oil

Combine the ingredients in a bottle or small bowl and shake gently until well blended. Pour into a small bottle and seal it.
Warm the oil before the massage.

Cold And Flu Massage Oil

Cold And Flu Relief Massage Oil Recipe

10 teaspoons grapeseed oil
5 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
5 drops Lavender essential oil
5 drops Ravensara essential oil
5 drops Marjoram essential oil

Combine the ingredients in a bottle or small bowl and shake gently until well blended. Pour into a small bottle and seal it.
Warm the oil before the massage.

Foot Massage Oil

Foot Massage Oil Recipe

4 tablespoons of sweet almond oil
10 drops spearmint essential oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil
5 drops wintergreen essential oil

Combine the ingredients in a bottle or small bowl and shake gently until well blended. Pour into a small bottle and seal it.
Warm oil before the foot massage.

Muscle Massage Oil

Muscle Relief Massage Oil Recipe

2 tablespoon carrier oil
10 drops lavender essential oil
8 drops rosemary essential oil
4 drops ginger essential oil
3 drops peppermint essential oil

Combine the ingredients in a bottle or small bowl and shake gently until well blended. Pour into a small bottle and seal it.
Warm the oil before the massage.

Pain Relief Massage Oil

Pain Relief Massage Oil Recipe

1/4 cup carrier oil
8 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil
2 drops chamomile essential oil

Combine the ingredients in a bottle or small bowl and shake gently until well blended. Pour into a small bottle and seal it.
Warm the oil before the massage.

Romantic Massage Oil

Lovers Romantic Massage Oil Recipe

2 tablespoons carrier oil
2 tablespoon rosehip seed oil
20 drops patchouli essential oil
10 drops lemongrass essential oil
10 drops vanilla fragrance oil

Combine the ingredients in a bottle or small bowl and shake gently until well blended. Pour into a small bottle and seal it.
Warm the oil before the massage.

Stress Relief Massage Oil

Stress Relief Massage Oil Recipe

10 teaspoons grapeseed oil
10 drops Lavender essential oil
10 drops Petitgrain essential oil
5 drops Ylang Ylang essential oil

Combine the ingredients in a bottle or small bowl and shake gently until well blended. Pour into a small bottle and seal it.
Warm the oil before the massage.

Chocolate Massage Bar

Chocolate Massage Bar Recipe

1/2 cup melted cocoa butter
1 tablespoon bees wax
1 tablespoon coconut oil

Melt the ingredients in a double boiler, then mix the well to combine them. Remove fromt he heat and let the mixture cool just enough to release some of the heat. Pour the mixture into candy molds and allow to continue to cool overnight.

These massage bars have a chocolate aroma and are solid when they at room temperature, but melt easily at body temperature, when rubbed in your hands.
To use your massage bar, rub it in your hands and the bar will start to melt. You can then use to share a massage or on freshly shaved legs.

Beach Massage

Beach massage is the ultimate ideal way of relaxing in the sunshine to the soundtrack of the ocean lapping against the sand. Beach massages are available in a wide range of forms and can be found in many different locations across the world. Some beach massages are even available in special beach villa packages or even yacht packages if you are feeling like splashing out on a really special pampering excursion. You can often also choose to have your beach massage with a beauty therapist or even a sports masseur, depending upon the type of beach massage treatment that you prefer. Beach massages are available in different lengths of time as well, and you can often choose to extend the time length of time a treatment takes by paying a little bit more money for the privilege.

Beach massages are comforting and offer a level of relaxation rejuvenation that is both a soothing and refreshing experience. A balance of nature and science combined with the use of high end products and professional personal attention is an invigorating experience that you can enjoy in luxurious settings across the globe. A top quality beach massage will encompass a combination of techniques based entirely upon your own personal needs and preferences.

Beach Massage Benefits

The benefits of beach massage include the following:

• Beach massages promote tanning
• Beach massages aid the body’s flexibility and range of motion
• Beach massages help you to relax and rejuvenate, helping to relieve stress
• Some beach massages can help to manage pain and aid weight loss and muscle gain
• Beach massages are proven to improve circulation and relieve tension in your body
• It is even said that beach massages can help to improve your posture and even lower blood pressure
• Beach massages help to transform the body and spirit in general, and come very highly recommended by all of those who have been lucky enough to experience one

Beach Massage Options

Beach massage is available in numerous different packages. The exact package and cost will depend very much on the individual service provided by the organisers or individual companies. Some great examples of ways to relax, pamper and indulge yourself on the beach are as follows:

• Beach massage "head specific" massages
• Beach massage "back specific" massages
• Invigorating massages for those who are feeling a little tired and run down in general
• Relaxing massage for those who are feeling pent up and stressed in general
• Foot spas for those of you who have spent too long running around
• Aromatherapy to aid the body in relaxing and being ‘at one’ with nature
• Balancing stone massage for those with a more earthy view of the world
• Reflexology and aromatherapy

In some cases a beach massage can include other pampering experiences, including detox, finger nail and pedicure treatments, and even facials.

Vaginal Massage

While most couples fondle the vagina as a foreplay technique, few make it the main course.

A vaginal massage can be an extremely pleasurable experience and it helps your intimate relationship. It releases emotional tensions and stress.

Vaginal Massage Techniques

Have her lie on her back and place a pillow under her hips. Her legs should be spread apart with knees slighlty bent and her genitals well exposed for the massage.

Start by lightly massaging the chest, arms, and hands. Then glide down to the legs. After finishing the fronts of the legs and feet, glide back up and slowly brush over the genitals, teasing them. This teasing can be prolonged by brushing the inner thighs near the genitals, very lightly touching the pubic region.

Pour a small quantity of oil or lubricant on the mound (mons pubis) of the vagina.
Start massaging gently the mound and outer lips of the vagina. Do not rush, go slowly.

Gently squeeze the outer labia (lip) between thumb and index finger and slide up and down the entire length of each lip. Similarly massage the inner labia of her vagina.
Ask if the pressure, speed and depth of the strokes are adequate, or if they need to be increased/decreased.

Gently stroke the clitoris with clockwise and counterclockwise circles.
Gently squeeze the clitoris between thumb and index finger. She will become very aroused at this point so encourage her to relax and breathe.

Slowly insert your middle finger into her vagina and gently explore and massage the inside of her vagina. Go slowly, be gentle and stroke up, down and sideways. Vary the pressure, speed and depth.
With your palm facing up, and middle finger inside her vagina, move your middle finger back and forth (like in a "come here" gesture). Also move your finger in circles and side to side. Take your time ...
You can also insert more than one finger depending on her flexibility and desire to be filled.

Try this: When you massage the clitoris, use your thumb in an up and down motion, while the rest of your hand massaging or resting on the mound.

If she has an orgasm, continue massaging if she wants. More orgasms may occur, each stronger in intensity. Keep massaging until she tells you to stop.

Tap Dancing

Tap dancing is another vaginal massage technique.

Place the palm of your hand on her mons pubis (the mound), and rest your fingers lightly on her vaginal lips. Rest your thumb on her thigh. Lightly but firmly press your palm onto her mons and begin to move your hand in a small circular motion. Your palm should not slide too much over her skin during this process. Rather, her skin should move underneath it.
Repeat this process until you have done ten circles.

Then raise your fingers and lightly tap her vaginal lips about once a second until you have given her ten taps. After giving the taps, rest your hand for five to ten seconds. Then repeat the whole routine over and over.

Effects of the vaginal massage:

Releases emotional tensions and stress
Reduces menstrual pain
Eliminates pain when having intercourse
Increased sensitivity in the vagina
Increased lubrication when sexually aroused
Opens up to new levels of ecstatic pleasure
More powerful orgasms and easier obtained
Eliminates emotional blockages in relation to sex

Massage Tips

People go to a spa or a clinic or any place where massage is offered so they can have time to relax and flush out the stress and toxins that ail their bodies. As a receiver of the massage, a person will get his or her money’s worth if he or she focuses on the massage being given and enjoy it to its fullest.

To make the massage a truly worthwhile experience, here are some tips to bear in mind.

1. Before the massage. When you make your appointment, make it a point to know exactly what kind or technique of massage that will be used on you. Know as much as you can about the massage technique and make sure you are comfortable with it.

Bring yourself into a frame of mind that will enable you to absorb fully the benefits of the massage you will be having. Clear your mind of whatever worries you before you show up for your appointment. If you can manage it, clear the entire day of your scheduled massage and devote the day instead for some relaxation and healing.

Be aware of what time your appointment is and show up early. Being at least fifteen minutes early is good. This will prevent you from arriving at the appointed place stressed out about the rush and the traffic, and it will also give you time for a shower or a soak at the tub, if these are available at the place you are going to.

If you know you are going to be late or you would be running to another place right after the massage, it would be better for you if you just reschedule the appointment. But before you do that, find out first the cancellation policy of the spa.

Do you want scented or unscented oil? Find out from the massage therapist what kind of oil she is going to use. If you are allergic to that oil or prefer something else, do not hesitate to bring your own.

2. During the massage. Always communicate with your massage therapist and be open with how you are feeling with regards the massage. You are there for your own comfort and relaxation, and so you should tell the therapist if there is something about the room or something that she is doing that you find uncomfortable.

Do you feel that the strokes the therapist is giving you too hard or too light? Speak up and ask her to change the pressure. Please keep in mind, though, that some massage techniques are supposed to be light, but you ought to ask her nonetheless.

Does a particular part of your body hurt and you want your therapist to pay attention to that part? Ask her to focus on it and she will concentrate most of her strokes towards treating that area.

Open your mind during the massage and relish the sensation of your muscles getting loosened and relaxed. Breathe deeply to make the cells of your body get the most out of the massage.

3. After the massage. A massage therapist will hand you a glass of water after the massage. Drink it to flush out the toxins that the massage released from your body. It would help a lot if you would spend the next hour after your massage on quiet and relaxing activities, such as a short and leisurely walk or a nap. Doing so will let the massage take its full effect on your body. A nice soak in warm water before you go to bed that day will help you feel more rejuvenated the morning after.

Best Massage

The term best massage depends on the specific type of experience that you would like to have. The main general elements that people usually want their massage to encompass are as follows:

• Massage for relaxation
• Massage for invigoration
• Massage for refreshing and revitalizing the body
• Massage for rejuvenating and re-energizing the body

Of course this is not an exhaustive list, however the general principles remain the same from both between and within different cultures. The chosen methods, set ups, surroundings and other elements of a massage are of course very personal and individual. It will depend upon your state of mind and your aim overall as to what is the best massage for you to go with at any one given time or in any one given scenario. Unless you are very familiar with your own preferences it is well worth taking the time to think about and strongly consider what your body it trying to tell you… are you tired? Are you stressed? Are you uncomfortable in body, mind, or even spirit? Or maybe you are merely in need of some quality time for relaxing pampering your body in general… massage is a great opportunity to wind down and reflect on your life, and everything that is going on within it and around it, at any given period of time.

Different companies offer different products and services so it is well worth having a good look around to see what sort of options might be best suited to your needs. When you have selected a company or a specific specialist to go to then you can begin the more personal, more one to one, process of establishing your wants and needs before you even arrive at the venue for your massage.

Best massage for relaxation

In general, the best massage for relaxation is slow and deep. Sometimes they can also involve aspects such as Indian Head Massage, facials and nail care. This is the sort of ‘Spa Day’ relaxation treatment that dreams are made from. Relaxing, ambient music is always a complimentary addition to these sorts of massages. The massages that are aimed at relaxing and rejuvenating the body are often the best sort of massages to go for if you want to refresh and revitalize your body.

Best massages for invigoration

The best massage for invigorating and stimulating the body is usually more heady and potentially "rough". Your senses will be further stimulated to create a deeper feeling of energy and internal strength. The use of scented oils and more powerful, more stimulating, massage music is often used in there invigorating treatments. The massages that are aimed at rejuvenating and re-energizing the body are often the best sort of massages to go for if you want to invigorate and revitalize your body.

Home Massage

Home massage is becoming increasingly popular for those who wish to receive the benefits of a massage in the comfort of their own homes. There are many different products available on the market for people who range in knowledge and ability. You could choose to start exploring home massage with basic, beginner home massage products... and gradually build up to cutting edge spa scientific break-through and technology if you so wish. Of course the cost of the home massage products and home massage technological gadgets usually increases the more specialized you choose to become.

There are so many different types of home massage products and technological gadgets that it is almost hard to know where to start. Here are some basic guidelines to explain different types of home massages.

Home massage products – lotions, potions and massage oils

There are many home massage products to help you to begin your exploration. You can get massage oils that are scented, some are different colors and some have different properties. For example the home massage product could have a fine powder included within its make up to help stimulate the skin. There are often herbal extracts and essences taken from ultra rich minerals to rejuvenate and nourish the skin. There are also firming facial home massage products that intensify the experience, and home massage products that encompass anti-aging oils to detoxify and cleanse the skin.

Aromatherapy is widely believed to be very beneficial, and there are many different fragrances available from many stores and even online. Aromatherapy is good for soothing your skin, neck, head and shoulders. It helps to improve your skins appearance and your circulation in general as it re-stimulates the skin, adding firmness, leaving your skin radiant and youthful. Aromatherapy responds directly to your body’s needs and the home massage product that you choose will be made from the finest natural essential oils and plant extracts. There are even home massage products available for even the most delicate skin.

Home massage technical products and gadgets

Of course you can enjoy home massage simply using your hands, but as with all areas of our lives there are many home massage technical products to help us if we need them. Different products have different features and benefits, such as added elements to increase stimulation and comfort including heat and vibration. Some products are operated manually and some are battery powered. Again, the product that you choose for your home massage will largely depend upon your individual needs and requirements.

Home massage – outside professional help

It is becoming increasingly popular for people to hire professional beauty and sports therapists to come to their own homes to give them a massage, rather than going out to a clinic or spa. This is not only helpful if your mobility is not great, but also to add another element of relaxation to the entire process. After all we are usually most comfortable in our own homes. Different masseurs will charge different rates and have different specialities. There will definitely be the right person out there to help you with your home massage if you are not confident or able to do it yourself.

Sensual Massage

Sensual Massage is an intimate art, an ancient practice which is great for old and young alike. Sensual massage combines the physical with the spiritual, it is a fusion of environment, preparation and pressure points. It is as much about how to touch as it is about where to touch.

This massage can be performed by anyone, with a little practice, and it is proven to improve intimacy, trust and relationships.

Sensual massage is the ultimate stress reliever. Your partner will feel relaxed throughout the experience. Sensual massage tickles the senses, it shows the recipient the promises of unbridled passion if ever it is unleashed.
Although it holds back to emphasize the emotional over the physical, it can promote heightened sensuality, which can lead to less inhibitions during lovemaking.
Sensual massage is the perfect mood-setter for romantic encounters.

Sensual Massage Preparation

• The temperature in the room needs to be comfortable; it is better to have the room too warm than too cool.
• Turn down the lights and use several candles throughout the room.
• Sensual lingerie is always an eye-pleaser, so use it.
• Put on a CD with gentle, relaxing, romantic music.
• Floral fragrances like jasmine, vanilla, rose, strawberry, raspberry are considered aphrodisiacs, so use scented candles, scented massage oils, or incense sticks.
• Your hands should be warm. Rub oil in the palms of your hands to warm them up before they touch your partner's skin.

The Massage

Start out by lightly stroking your partner's body with the tips of your fingers (start on your partner's back).
Move from one area of the body to another covering shoulders, arms, thighs, calves and buttocks.

When your partner is completely relaxed, begin the sensual massage by making long, gliding strokes over your partner's body.
When you’ve covered the shoulders, arms, thighs, calves and buttocks, switch from long gliding strokes to short deep strokes.
For the deep strokes you need to lightly use your body weight rather than your arm strength, but be gentle.

As you work your way around using short deep strokes, also massage their feet and hands, brush over their buttocks and if you’re massaging a female partner, make sure you gently stroke her breasts.

When you think the time is right, begin working your way very slowly down your partner's legs gliding your hands as you go. Tease your partner by stroking their inner thigh.

When the sensual energy has had time to build, continue the massage with more strokes to the front of the body. Then, ... well, you can take it from there!

You Can Also Give Her A Sensual Bath

Simply fill the tub with warm water and bubbles, blindfold her and put her in the bath. You have the option of getting in with her, but you will likely have more freedom to maneuver and focus on the task if you stay out.

Massage Video Demonstration

Massage therapist Susan Winchester shows some tricks of the the trade on how to massage your partner.

Tip: Sexual Energy Release Points - neck and ears. Encourage your partner to breathe in a deep and relaxing manner as you gently massage their neck, making small circles over the release points on the upper neck and about halfway up the ears.

Neck Pain Neck Massage

Neck pain can be caused by injury, stress or by other health problems, including some that could have serious consequences.

One of the most common causes of neck pain, and sometimes headaches, is poor posture.

Your neck contains bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles and nerves, any of which can hurt. Neck pain also may come from regions near your neck, such as your head and shoulders.

Giving Neck Massage

1. Place yourself at your partners head, while they are lying on their back. Oil the front of the body, starting with hands on their upper chest, then move down over the breastbone and back up the sides of the body to the starting position. Place hands on the upper chest, fingers pointing toward each other and press down, gliding the hands out toward the top of the arm.

2. Cradle the head in one hand and turn it slightly toward the right. With the other hand, glide firmly out from the center of the chest to the top of the arm, back along the top of the shoulder, and up the back of the neck to the base of the skull.

3. Make small circles along the back of the neck to release tension, then continue down the side of the neck to the chest. Stroke firmly down the side of the neck and out along the top of the shoulder, stretching the neck muscles.

4. Turn the head back to the center with both hands supporting the head under the neck, and pull gently to stretch out the neck muscles.

5. Turn the head to the opposite side and repeat the sequence for the other shoulder. Return the head to the center and pull gently. Make small, circular movements up the back of the neck to the skull and then stroke up the back of the head and off.

Heat can help relax sore muscles, but it sometimes aggravates inflammation, so use it with caution. Apply heat or ice for 15 to 20 minutes, with a 40-minute rest between applications.

For pain that doesn't get better, your doctor may recommend:

• Physical therapy. Heat, ice or similar treatments combined with an appropriate stretching and muscle strengthening program may enhance the structures that support your cervical spine. Such treatments are often all you need for neck pain.
• Pain medications. Your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medicine than what you can get over-the-counter. Opioid analgesics are sometimes used briefly to treat acute neck pain. Muscle relaxants also may be prescribed.

Also see your doctor if the following signs and symptoms occur together with neck pain:

• Severe pain from an injury. After head or neck trauma, such as whiplash or a blow to your head, see your doctor immediately. Severe pain over a bone might indicate a fracture or an injury to a ligament.
• Shooting pain. Pain radiating to your shoulder, through your shoulder blades or down your arm, or numbness or tingling in your fingers, may indicate nerve irritation. Neck pain from nerve irritation can last from three to six months or longer. Because serious problems may occur after continued nerve irritation, see your doctor.
• Loss of strength. Weakness in an arm or a leg, walking with a stiff leg, or shuffling your feet indicates the need for immediate evaluation
  

Massage Strokes

There are many strokes used in giving massage, and each stroke has its own purpose. Each stroke used by a massage therapist in giving massage is chosen for a specific reason and not on some random whim. The therapist uses a particular kind of stroke depending on what her client wants out of the session of treatment, whether he or she wants to be relaxed or energized. That is how it is: a particular stroke can act like a calming sedative or a refreshing stimulant depending on the speed and pressure with which it is applied.

In massage, each stroke is done rhythmically, with one stroke flowing fluidly into the next. Also, massage strokes are ideally done with firmness towards the heart, and with lightness when moving away from it.

Below are the names of the massage strokes that a therapist often uses, and what these strokes are for.

Cupping. The hands and fingers are curled into a cup shape, and with the palms facing downward, are beaten across the area being massaged.

Draining. Draining is a stroke done with medium pressure and used with the heel of the hand on larger areas, or with the thumbs on smaller areas. The thumb or the heel of the hand is pushed upward along the sinew of the area being massaged and is aimed at stretching the muscle and increasing blood circulation.

Friction. Friction strokes are massage strokes specifically used to loosen knots in the muscles. It is always deep and with pressure, done using the thumbs and fingertips moving in tiny circles along the area being massaged. Some receivers of the massage prefer this stroke above all others; other receivers find it painful and could not tolerate it for long.

Gliding. The purpose of gliding strokes is to apply the massage oil onto the skin, as well as to stretch and relax the muscles of the person receiving the massage. The gliding stroke is done with the fingers together and the hands themselves outstretched; contact with the skin of the receiver of the massage is done with the flat of the giver’s hands. The gliding stroke can be firm and reassuring, or merely as light as a feather’s touch. It can be in a long and forward motion or in a circular pattern. One or both hands may be used in doing the gliding stroke.

Hacking. This stroke is also known as the chopping stroke. The sides of the hands, with the palms facing each other, beat up and down the area being massaged. Sometimes the hands are folded into loose fists for added pressure.

Kneading. Kneading is done on the fleshy parts of the body with the purpose of relaxing muscle tension and increase blood circulation. It is always done firmly, with both hands grasping the part being massaged and then mashing it with the fingers and the heel of the hands, like kneading dough.

Plucking. Plucking is done by lifting the flesh using the fingertips. The lifted muscle is then pinched before it is allowed to slide back.

Pulling. This is a stroke done on the muscles of the torso and of the legs. Done with both hands, with one alternating with the other, the muscles are pulled and stretched to loosen them.

Wringing. Wringing is done on the torso, the arms and the legs. The hands are placed on either side of the area being massaged and are moved in an alternating forward and backward motion, in an upward direction until it slowly reaches the head.

The giver of the massage should not forget to keep her hands and wrists relaxed in performing these different massage strokes, or else she would end up hurting her arms. The force of the massage should also not be limited to the giver’s arms and shoulders; she should use her entire body weight to perform the massage.

Massage Benefits

The spa business is booming all over the world, and more and more people, women and men alike, are becoming enamored with the comfort and relaxation that massage brings to their bodies.

We all know that soothes aching muscles and relieves pain, but are there other benefits to having our bodies massaged?

Here are some fast facts on what benefits we can get from massage.

Massage helps remove the feeling of pain in the body by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are the body’s feel-good hormones. Because massage relieves pain regardless of cause, it also lessens the body’s need for pain-killing medication.

Another type of hormones that massage helps to release is called cortisol, which is responsible for lowering the stress levels of the body. With lowered stress levels, the body becomes more capable of healing itself. It also lowers blood pressure, allows the body to breathe more properly and lessens feelings of anxiety.

Manipulation of the muscles through massage aids in loosening and relaxing stiffened muscles. Inflammatory afflictions such as arthritis and tendinitis can also be treated using massage.

The circulation of blood in the body is enhanced through massage. Improved circulation means improved supply of nutrients to individual cells of the body, not to mention improved transport of wastes from these cells.

Improved circulation also leads to clearer, softer and healthier skin, as the skin cells become more nourished with oxygen and nutrients.

It is said that massage helps break down accumulated fat underneath the skin, thus aiding weight loss.

Massage also aids in the stimulation of the lymphatic system, boosting the body’s immunity and natural defense mechanisms. A healthy lymphatic system means less susceptibility to various illnesses and the body’s heightened ability to heal itself.

Regular massage improves the flexibility of the joints and makes the body more capable of a wider range of movements. Fluidity of movement brought about by regular massage also reduces the probability of getting muscle injuries. It also improves posture.

In hospitals and other health facilities, massage is now being used to help trauma and surgery patients recover and be rehabilitated. Post-operative massage therapy is also claimed to help shorten the stay of patients in the hospital.

Many pregnant women now seek massage to relax their bodies and prepare themselves for childbirth. Such pregnant women who have undergone massage therapy during their gestation period are said to have shorter and less painful labors.

Massage fulfills the body’s need for touch. Regular massage improves emotional well-being by allowing the person to feel cared for and nurtured. Such not only lowers stress levels but also reduces a person’s tendency to feel anxious and sink into depression.

With massage, the mind is made to feel calm and relaxed. Such a state of the mind is good for enhancing focus and improving concentration, thereby making the mind more creative and productive. Massage also makes the mind aware of the body, allowing it to recognize more quickly its needs and possible afflictions.

Hot Massage

The Hot Massage is a Great Massage
Hot Stone Massage is a massage therapy style that uses in which seasoned and heated stones are placed at specific locations on the body to promote relaxation and to help open up the merdians (energy pathways).

Basalt stones are the most common stones for a hot massage, but other types of stones can also be used.
If you want to give a hot massage, first you can hunt for your own stones in a riverbed or buy them from a massage supply company.
Get smooth stones of various sizes, with no sharp corners or rough spots.

Before the hot stone massage, you you have to season the stones. Basically, you just coat them in oil — massage oil or baby oil. Lavender is an essential oil used to promote relaxation and it's perfect for a hot stone massage.
Next, heat the stones by placing them in a roasting pan, covered with water. Heat the water and when the stones are warm, remove them from the water with tongs and dry them off with a towel.

If the stones are too warm, you can lay a sheet or towel between the person's skin and the hot stones.
Place the stones carefully on the back of the person receiving a hot stone massage. Put the larger stones on the areas with larger muscles.

The placing of the stones can be followed by a massage which can be deeper and more intense as heat penetrates the body and relaxes the muscles.

Benefits of Hot Massage

• Promotes deep muscle relaxation
• Relieves stress
• Releases toxins
• Alleviates pain
• Improves circulation

Indulge yourself, get a nice hot massage!

Foot Massage

The feet are the most abused and yet the most neglected parts of our bodies. Our feet support our weight when we are standing, which can be too much if one is overweight or has been standing still for a long time. Whenever we walk or run, the first to feel the shock of the contact between the ground and our bodies are our feet. We keep our feet confined in shoes and socks or stockings for most of the day. The ladies are prone to stressing out their feet more because of the ridiculous necessity of wearing high heels. No wonder our feet hurt so much at the end of the day!

This is why a good foot massage at the end of the day can be an exhilarating experience. Practitioners of reflexology and alternative medicine claim that the nerve endings on the foot correspond to a specific organ of the body, and so massaging certain areas of the foot is like massaging that particular organ to which it is linked. Whatever claims these practitioners of reflexology may have, the simple fact is that foot massage is so terrific that many who get them on a regular basis are ready to state that it is almost as good as getting a full body massage.

Giving a loved one a foot massage is certainly one of the best treats you can give him or her. The beauty of it is that it is so simple to do and there is very little cost involved. And yet, it is something that will definitely be appreciated afterwards, so much that you will have to gear yourself into giving more later on.

How can you give a foot massage? The first step to a good foot massage is creating the mood for it. A room that is clean, dimly lit, and where the air smells good is a great place to do that massage.

Make your partner bare his or feet and sit back on a reclining chair. Have your partner soak his or her feet in the basin of lukewarm water that you will provide. Make sure that the water is not too hot. If you have some essential oils, mix in a couple of drops with the water to make it nicer. Let your partner soak his or her feet for ten minutes, doing nothing but sitting there with his or her eyes closed.

After soaking, dry your partner’s feet one at a time. Then place a foot on your lap and just wrap your hands around the foot for a few minutes. This is to warm the foot and establish rapport between you and your partner. When you feel that your partner’s foot is warm enough, put a few drops of oil on your hands and rub them together. With your hands oiled and warm, rub the sole of the foot with your thumbs in a circular pattern, starting from the heel, up the arch and to the base of the toes.

Follow through the strokes of your thumb by making a fist of your hand and pressing the knuckles against the sole of your partner’s foot. Once again, start from the heel, up the arch and then to the base of the toes.

Do not forget to pay some attention to the toes of your partner. Carefully pull and tug at each toe. After doing this, lay the foot on your lap, plant your thumbs on its surface and then dig your fingers into the soles of the foot, going from heel to the base of the toe.

As a final touch, gently stroke the top of the foot with your fingertips and then dry the foot. Repeat the entire process with your partner’s other foot.

Your partner will certainly love the foot massage you will give him or her. Urge your partner to learn how to do it so he or she can treat you to a foot massage too.

Facial Massage

Massage, in whatever form, at the very least loosens the muscles and takes away pain and strain from the body, relaxes the body and calms the mind. A good massage that is done regularly helps to stimulate the release of feel-good hormones known as endorphins. It also improves the circulation of blood within the body and makes the elimination of wastes from the body more efficient.

Another good thing about massage is that it is not just for the body and the limbs. Massage can also be done on the face, and facial massage is touted to be one of the best anti-aging treatments ever.

Facial massage is good because of many reasons. For one, massage helps to exfoliate the skin, taking away dirt and dead skin cells that make the skin look dull. For another, massage increases the circulation of blood to the face, and such improved circulation makes the skin more nourished and brings to it a healthy glow. And yet another reason is that massage improves the elasticity of the skin, thereby removing the wrinkles and fine lines that are associated with aging.

Facial massage starts with the cleansing of the face. The skin of the face is exposed to warm steam, which then opens the pores of the skin. Using a gentle cleanser and other tools, the therapist cleans away the dirt and makeup off of the face. She may also use other tools to slough off blackheads and whiteheads.

Once the skin is cleansed, moisturizer is applied to the face to reduce the friction that would otherwise irritate facial skin. The type of moisturizer that the therapist would use depends on the skin type of the client’s face. Thick and heavy moisturizer is applied to dry facial skin; on the other hand, only light moisturizer is applied to oily facial skin. Sometimes, the application of moisturizer is skipped for people with extremely oily skin.

The facial massage routine that therapists typically use:

1. The hands are cupped around the head. In this, the thumbs would be placed on the forehead while the fingertips are at the temples. Using the thumbs, short vertical strokes are applied to the forehead, first to the line just above the eyebrows, and then moving upward to the hairline.

2. Light pressure is applied between the eyebrows using the thumbs. The thumbs then crawl along the center of the forehead towards the direction of the hairline.

3. Circular movements are made with the fingers on the temples, working from the temples down to the side of the face, until the fingers reach the jawbone and then the chin.

4. A line is traced with the fingertips from under the cheekbones to the temples.

5. Another line, like a mustache, is drawn using the fingertips from the upper lip towards the temples. Once the fingertips reach the temples, a circle is drawn there once or twice.

Back Massage

Back pain is one of the most common ailments for which people turn to massage therapists to alleviate. There are even a number of massage therapies that pay special attention to the back. You do not have to set an appointment with a massage therapist, however, to get a simple but relaxing back massage. A back massage is something you and your partner can learn for yourselves and give to each other whenever you feel that it is needed.

Enumerated below is a step-by-step routine on how to massage your partner's back. But before you proceed to work on your partner, make sure that the atmosphere in the room where you will be doing the massage is conducive to relaxation.

A clean room is a relaxing room, so make sure that the room is clean.
Toss a CD of relaxing instrumentals into your player and, for added effect, light some scented candles.
Also, take a shower and warm your hands before giving a massage; you need to be in a relaxed state yourself in order to be able to give an effective massage.

The back massage routine listed below makes use of effleurage, which is a massage stroke that is long and sweeping. It is meant to loosen and relax the muscles and to make each part of the body feel connected to each other.

Since this is a back massage, make your partner lay on his or her stomach. If you have a massage table at home, that would be awesome, but the bed or the couch will do as long as it is firm and your partner would be comfortable laying there. Rub some massage oil in your hands to warm them up. Then, using both hands, apply massage oil to your partner's back and make firm strokes from the lower back up to the neck. Trace a circular path on your partner's back with your hands when you return your hands to the lower back. Press the heels of your hands to the lower back of your partner, one at each side of the spine, and move them in a circle starting from the lower back, coming upward to the center of the back and then outward until you get your hands back to your starting position. Slowly move your strokes upward until you reach the shoulders. With your fingertips, and with one hand lying on top of the other, press against the muscles of the back on the side opposite where you are standing. This means that if you are standing to the right of your partner, press to the left side of his back. Gradually move from the lower back to the shoulders, and then repeat on the other side. Using firm and deliberate pressure, let your thumbs travel the length of both sides of the spine, moving towards the shoulders, then returning to the lower back. Find the knots and the bunched up spots on the area being covered. Using your forearms this time, apply pressure to the lower back, and then rub your arm that is closer to your partner’s head towards the lower end of the shoulder blades. While performing the massage thus far, you may have noticed some knots and bunched up spots on your partner’s back, or he/she may have told you about particularly painful areas on his/her back. Press your thumb on each painful spot until the pain lessens or disappears. Repeat steps 2 to 4, and then lightly tap your fingertips along your partner's back. After wards, give your partner a glass of water or two and then leave him or her to rest and relax.