The Beginner's Guide To Sensual Massage

Do not:

-Massage on a bed—create a soft surface on the floor.
-Talk, or massage while your partner is reading or watching TV.
-Probe or poke the body.
-Break body contact.
-Apply pressure to the spine or back below the ribs, when the kidneys are unprotected.
-Change the rhythm or pace of your strokes.
-Wear a watch or jewelry.
-Say "My turn!" after you have finished.

Sure, a great rubdown can put anyone in the mood—but if getting your partner's kinks out is always about seduction, you’re missing out on a powerful bonding experience.

By exploring each other's needs through the selfless act of massage, you can learn how to make each other melt, physically and emotionally.

"Massage is about giving and receiving," explains Dr. Deborah Musso, director and founder of Sea Change New York, a Manhattan wellness center. "With massage you gain a whole new understanding of how to create intimacy: Set a sacred space, let go of tension, and go from a state of defense to a place that's safe."

Gordon Inkeles, author of The New Sensual Massage and other books on the subject, urges couples to "rediscover the tactile possibilities" of the body, since most people reserve touching for the so-called "erogenous zones"—only five percent of the available territory. Hug It Out! The Benefits Of Non-Sexual Touch

Inkeles points to the ultra-sensitive scalp and feet as sensually deprived areas. He also suggests focusing on the areas that hold the most tension: For men, that's the lower back, and for women, the neck and shoulders.

"Be generous with your partner," Inkeles advises. "It costs nothing—you don't need a professional. If you spend time with your partner's body, you will get results."

STARTER STROKES