whoopie school

Image courtesy of thomaswanhoff used under Creative Commons license.

Yesterday I posted my Valentine’s Day wish list, and right at the top was a full body massage. When it comes to partner massages, I do not discriminate. I’ll take it anyway I can get it. For me, it’s a relaxing and sensual experience just to have big, strong hands all over me, no skill required. However, I do appreciate a good massage (I once had a tiny woman walk on my neck during a Thai massage). I realized that it probably wouldn’t be too hard to research and develop some skill in the massage area. Here are some tips I’ve compiled to help with your DIY partner massage.

• Preparation. Set up a space with music, lighting, towels, and sheets. Candles are a relaxing touch. While the New Age-y sound is fine at a spa, at home I’d prefer The Dirty Three, The Rachels, or Explosions in the Sky, or anything else that would be equally hard for me to sing to. Pick music that you think will be relaxing to your partner. Finally, have massage oil on hand.

• Start with a bath. A hot soak or shower is a good way to start to relax your partner and loosen his/her muscles. Totally optional, of course, but starts the massage off nicely.

• Use long, soft strokes. To start, warm up some oil in your palms and begin with long strokes using medium pressure. This massage video gives pretty good guidance on different types of strokes that can be used.

• Massage the whole body. Traditional massage forms usually start with the back, neck, and shoulders; then works the hips, buttocks, and legs; followed by the belly, chest, and arms; and ends with the face and head. If you want to make it an erotic massage with your partner, tantric massage techniques are helpful.

These basic tips should get you on your way to an enjoyable partner massage experience. Just remember that your care and intent to pleasure are the most important ingredients!