Massage therapy is used to treat all kinds of ailments, from muscle soreness and pain to depression and mood disorders. Though massage therapists are licensed professionals who have studied anatomy and physiology, you can replicate many of the feel-good effects of massage therapy at home by giving a massage with hot oil. Set the mood for relaxation by dimming the lights, lighting a few candles and turning on some soft, rhythmic music.
Step 1
Pour a generous amount of massage oil into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the oil in a microwave for about 15 seconds. Check the temperature of the oil: it should be warmer than your body temperature but not too hot.
Step 2
Ask the person you're massaging to lay flat on his stomach on a massage table or other firm, flat surface. You need to apply the massage oil to bare skin, so ask the person you're massaging to remove his shirt or drape a towel around himself before he lays down.
Step 3
Dip your fingers lightly in the warm oil and rub a light layer of oil over the bare back of the person you're massaging. Use your palms to gently spread the oil over her entire back. Add more oil to your fingertips if you need to.
Step 4
Increase the pressure you use to push with your palms, starting with the lower back and pushing firmly upwards on either side of the spine, moving toward the shoulders with a few steady strokes. Repeat, increasing the pressure a little each time you move up the back.
Step 5
Use your fingers to press your way along the shoulder muscles, working out from the spine toward the arms. Add more oil if your hands don't slide easily over the skin, and increase the pressure slightly each time you move outward.
Step 6
Use your fingers to trace the area you covered with your palms, pressing firmly as you go.
Tips and Warnings
- If you add too much oil, use your palms to spread it around and work it into the skin, pushing firmly. Wipe your hands on a towel if they are too lubricated to be comfortable.
- People with certain health conditions shouldn't get a massage without a doctor's consent. If your massage subject has cancer, a blood health issue, problems with blood clots, a skin infection or another health issue, have him clear the safety of getting a massage with his doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Massage oil
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