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PREPARING TO MASSAGE
The basis of massage is touch and, to thrive, we
all need the warmth and security it engenders. A massage with scented oil blends should be
as relaxing to give as it is to receive, with you and your partner calm. As with any new
skill, massage takes practice. Try to persuade a friend to learn as well, so that you can
massage each other and appreciate how the strokes feel. During a massage, it is essential
that both you and your partner feel at ease, so start by making your environment as
comfortable as possible.
ENVIRONMENT
Choose a peaceful, quiet, warm room with subdued
lighting. Most traditional beds are too soft for massage and absorb all your strength so
using the floor or a table is better. To give a good massage you need to be absorbed in
what you are doing. Concentrate on your friend, breathe deeply, and enjoy the rhythm of
the movements -- your sense of tranquillity will be transmitted to your friend. Keep your
back as straight as possible during the massage, and use your body weight, instead of
force, to vary the depth of the movements. Learn to be sensitive and to "listen"
with your hands. To increase flexibility, squeeze a rubber ball in each hand, flexing and
extending your fingers for a minute a day.
PAMPERING YOUR FRIEND
Your friend's general health and what he or she hopes
to gain from the massage will govern your choice of essential
oils. For instance, is stress a problem? Does your friend need to feel wide awake at
the end of the treatment, or is there time to sleep afterward? Discuss any medical
problems, and then select an appropriate blend of essential oils, ensuring that he or she
likes the aroma. Once your friend has undressed, cover the body with plenty of large
towels to keep in warmth and enhance the feeling of comfort.
USING MASSAGE OIL
Oil helps the hands glide smoothly over the body.
For a full body massage, you will need about 20 ml (4 tsp) of carrier oil, to which you
can add a few drops of essential oil. The amount of oil you use will depend on the size of
your friend and the dryness of the skin. Shake the bottle, then warm a little oil between
your hands. Keep the open bottle within reach in case you need to apply more oil. If you
do, keep one hand on the body while picking up the bottle.
APPLYING THE OIL
Pour about a teaspoon of oil into the palm of the
hand (not over the fingers -- it will drip through), warm it between your palms, then
stroke it on to the body. Never pour oil directly on to the skin. To replenish the oil,
drizzle a small amount on to the back of your hand and use your other hand to stroke the
oil on to the body.
WARNINGS
Before starting to massage, ask whether your friend is pregnant or epileptic, and if
so it is advisable they speak to their doctor before using essential oils.
Never massage someone with any of the following conditions without a doctor's consent:
Inflammatory conditions, such as varicose
veins, thrombosis or phlebitis
Acute back pain, especially if the pain shoots down the arms or legs when you
touch the back
Skin infection, bruising or acute inflammation
Infection, contagious disease or high temperature
Any other serious medical condition.
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