Reconnect With A Relaxing Massage

Are you planning any romantic getaways this holiday season? Even if your plans are keeping you close to home, don’t forget to take the time to slow down and reconnect with your partner. One sure-fire reconnection idea is to give a massage.

I’m a certified massage therapist, but you don’t need to go to school to learn how to give your partner a loving massage. Keep the following tips in mind…..

*Gather your supplies before you get started. Once you begin the massage, it’s jarring to the person you are massaging if you have to step away. A massage therapist tries to keep one hand on their client at all times.

*Turn the TV down low or better yet, turn it off. Play soft music or go with the quiet. Use lamplight or candle light, rather than overhead lighting.

*Always pour the massage oil into your hand first, warm it by rubbing hands together, then apply it to your partner’s skin with your hands.

*Use long strokes with firm pressure. Try to make your hand cover as much skin surface as possible – hand flattened to the skin. This is the most comforting, reassuring touch. (Really, it doesn’t matter what type of stroke you use, this type of touch is all you need). 

*Take your time. In the case of a good massage, it’s almost as good to give as it is to receive. Slowing down and tuning into your partner’s breathing is very relaxing.

*Take turns. There’s no getting around it – the person who goes last gets the best deal. Switch who goes first each time.

A good massage oil  has a subtle scent and allows the hands to slide along the skin smoothly. The Scandle candle is a soy candle that burns at low heat. As the candle melts it turns into a fragrant massage oil.

I tried the Uplifting Blend  in the Scandle Essentials line. These candles are scented with a blend of pure essential oils. A 10 ounce candle burns for 30-50 hours and runs $21.95.  It’s packaged in a ceramic container that features a little spout for ease of use. Refills are available for $9.99.  Scandle Essentials are also available in a 4 ounce Travel Tin (this is the size I sampled).

The Scandle is easy to use. Light the candle, allow it to melt, then when enough soy oil has accumulated, blow the candle out, pour the oil into your hand, then apply it to the skin for massage.

The Scandle candle works well as a massage oil – smooth, slippery, smells great – and the skin feels very soft after the oil is absorbed. When you figure that it’s a candle and a massage oil, it’s also a very economical choice.

Ceramic Scandle image credit: A Body Candle.com
Traveler size Scandle image credit: Michelle Smith