In addition to therapeutic benefits, such as relaxation, pain relief and stress reduction, massage can be a great way for people to connect emotionally and physically, according to the Mayo Clinic. A back massage can be an effective way to help your partner relax and show him you care, but you’ll want to make sure you have the right technique.
Use Oil or Lotion
Using essential oils or lotions, especially those scented with lavender, can help make the back massage a more pleasurable experience, and can help improve sleep quality, reduce stress and improve mood, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Choose scented oils or lotions that are pleasing to your partner and that won’t irritate the skin. Rub the lotion or oil on your hands and rub it in between your fingers to increase the ability for your hands to glide smoothly over the skin of the back.
Maintain Even Pressure
Putting too much or too little pressure on certain spots of the back, especially the spine, can make for an uncomfortable massage. Try to maintain even pressure throughout the massage, which will help the person relax and stimulate the deep muscle tissues in the back.
Alternate Long and Short Strokes
Use your hands to make small strokes over concentrated areas, such as the lower back or shoulders, and use long strokes to massage up and down the back. Mold your hands to the contours of the person’s back you’re massaging, and focus on making your hands soft and pliable rather than stiff or rigid, which will make for a more pleasurable massage.
Use All Parts of Your Hands
Your hands are extremely dexterous tools for giving a massage, so take advantage of their many features. Use your fingers to probe and poke the skin lightly. Use the balls of your hand to provide deep-tissue relief to painful areas of the back. Use a soft grip to pull on the skin using your hands and fingers to stimulate blood flow.
Ask
The best way to make sure your partner or patient is getting the relief they need from a back massage is to ask where they’re feeling discomfort and focus your massage on those areas. Spend a lot of time on problem areas, but go over all areas of the back as well to promote relaxation.
