Valentines Day Gifts - Give a Sensual Massage

Although its beginnings are clouded by time, one thing is certain - couples around the globe continue to recognize the gift of each other on this day dedicated to lovers.

What will you do for your love this February 14th? We have all invested time and energy in searching out the 'perfect' Valentines Day gift for our partner, an intimate expression of heart that is somehow defining of our feelings for one another.

Some years we succeed gloriously, while on others, we may be left to grasp at the commercial simplicity of yet another box of chocolates, or a dozen roses.

Now, many of us can extract a significant amount of pleasure from almost any box of chocolates - but it would seem that Valentines Day should involve a greater sharing between partners, an opportunity to continue their journey with one another, while refreshing their state of intimacy, an aspect of any successful relationship that daily living can slowly chip away at.

One answer to the Valentines Day gift question? In our view, there are few choices that allow for an expression of intimacy as succinct as a sensual massage. The gift of time, effort, and sharing is one that is rarely forgotten, and almost universally appreciated, and enjoyed.

But where to begin? Not all of us have had an opportunity to learn the art of sensual massage, and some may even let fear of failure inhibit their desire to try. Well fear no more, for we at A World of Aromatherapy want you to get your hands working, and are going to guide you through this wonderful process, step by step, and just in time to share it with your beloved, this Valentines Day.

Where to Begin

There are a number of considerations before you begin the experience of giving, and receiving a sensual massage.

First off, you need to advise, and invite your partner! Give he or she plenty of advance notice, to ensure that you have each other's complete focus, and attention.

The next thing you'll need to determine is where the best place to share the massage experience will be. Often, practiced couples will use a bed, a padded tabletop, or a pillow covered floor as the location of choice.

You'll also need to plan ahead for those little extras you may want available to make the experience specific to your relationship - oils enjoyed by each of you, candles used during earlier romantic encounters - the list is endless, and personal to each of your adventures.

Some towels and/or covering cloths are also suggested, for cleanup of excess oils, or for ensuring the recipients warmth and comfort during the massage itself.

Creating Ambiance

Preparing your space carefully can help ensure a peaceful and romantic evening or afternoon, one that is certain not to be forgotten for some time to come...

• unplug your telephone, lock the door, make alternative arrangements for children and pets
• turn the lights down low, or light a few candles instead - create your own 'cabin in the woods'
• ensure the room temperature is comfortable for a 'clothing optional' situation - we would recommend a setting of close to 80 degrees
• prepare a musical selection that is tranquil, and that consists of favorites for all participants - set the CD player to play all songs, so as to produce no poorly timed interruptions
• assemble an array of your favorite oils, either premixed, or custom made to your wishes - see our assortment of recipes specifically for lovers below

Massage Oils for Lovers

Consider these recipes, derived from both research into mixes with 'aphrodisiac' qualities, as well as suggestions made by our generous, and amorous readers.

For each, mix ingredients in a clean, dark glass bottle, shaking the blend before using.

Sensual Massage Recipe One

• 4 ounces of your preferred carrier oil
• 15 drops of rose oil
• 15 drops of ylang ylang oil
• 10 drops of jasmine oil

Sensual Massage Recipe Two

• 4 ounces of your preferred carrier oil
• 15 drops of rosewood oil
• 10 drops of geranium oil
• 8 drops of jasmine oil
• 4 drops of neroli oil

The Spicy Sensual Massage

• 4 ounces of your preferred carrier oil
• 15 drops of sandalwood oil
• 9 drops of cinnamon oil
• 6 drops of peppermint oil
• 5 drops of black pepper oil

Don't forget to test your oil mixture before applying too liberally to your partner's skin - apply to a small area and wait a few minutes, watching for any kind of reaction.

As always, those with highly sensitive skin types should take additional care when considering the application of essential oils to the skin.

The Massage Itself

The sensual massage has been called 'the dance of love'. It is a gift of intimacy, which by definition incorporates caring, and communication. Likewise, the giving of a truly sensual massage requires that one listens carefully to the needs, and wishes of their partner.

Start by ensuring that your partner is comfortable, warm, and relaxed. Begin the massage by applying warmed oils, mixed with a mutually enjoyed carrier, to the area of the body you want to work first.

Many begin with the back rub, an excellent area through which to achieve a heightened level of relaxation, and a more open line of communication.

Keep your strokes light at the start, listening attentively to the reactions of your partner. Their communications will be both spoken, and intimated through body language. The lighter the stroke the better, unless indications are that additional pressure would be preferred.

Continuous movement is important to the flow of the massage - when working on the back, begin at the neck, taking your fingers gently down the spine, and off to the side in a smooth, fluid motion. Let one stroke lead into another, avoiding sudden movements, always focusing on the needs, and responses of your partner.

Keep your massage varied, using different strokes, and shifting to changing areas of the body. Balance opposing limbs, working one, then the other.

Some couples enjoy using 'props' to take the sensory nature of the experience beyond what simple fingers to skin can bring. Consider incorporating feathers, silk, or fresh flowers into your event - but don't rub too lightly, or you may send your partner into a tickle induced fit of laughter - enjoyable in most cases, but perhaps not as sensual a moment as one may be hoping for!

Always pay close attention to the state of relaxation your partner is in. Sleep is a possibility with any massage, but a true sensual massage walks this line carefully, ensuring a partner who is aware, capable of communicating their needs & enjoyment, and of sharing in further intimacies that tend to flow naturally from such moments!

Engaging your partner in a moment dedicated solely to one another is one small way of ensuring a relationship that is positive, communicative, and intimate in more ways than one. It is one of many gifts worthy of giving, one that will ensure a loving & Happy Valentines Day!

back to top home