Home Massage

Massage is a natural part of everyday life, beneficial for the receiver as well as the giver, and everybody should be able to do it. Relaxation is the key to the benefits - the more you can do to help your partner feel comfortable and at peace, the more effective the massage will be. There are certain parameters required for home massage.

Working Surface

You will need a firm surface to work on, a table or the floor is fine. When you are massaging someone on the floor, use a mattress, quilt or cushions to make a comfortable surface. Cover with a sheet or towel to prevent the oil staining your furnishings. Make sure that the room is warm and preferably with softer lighting to help your partner relax. When working on the calves, you will require to support the ankles with a cushion, when working on the front of the legs support under the knees would be perfect. When working on the back and shoulders, try placing a cushion under the chest to accentuate the curve and make tension points more accessible.

The Lubricant

Aromatic essential oils are very effective in massage. Use a good vegetable oil, such as sweet almond and avoid the thick, sticky mineral oils, to make the base for the essential oils. Alternatively, you can use oils like mustard or olive oil can also be used. Some masseurs also use plain talcum powder to massage.

Keep the oil, cream or talc you use to lubricate your hands close beside you during the massage. Warm it with your hands, and then spread it on the receiver's body. In a whole body massage, apply lubricant to each area before you work on it; don't lubricate the body all at once.

Posture and Contact

Make sure that your own body posture is relaxed and comfortable. If working on a table, keep your knees slightly 'broken', this will keep your lower back more relaxed and reduce the tendency to lean too far over. Remember to keep yourself feeling comfortable and relaxed, while giving a massage. Breathe freely, try to keep a good posture and let your hands stay as relaxed as possible. If you need any extra pressure in any movement, lean in with your whole body and use some of its weight, rather than tensing your fingers. Giving massage can be therapeutic too, and often leaves the giver refreshed and hungry.