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More than just relaxation, massage can be a powerful tool to melt away muscle tension, ease aches, and soothe your stresses
Summary
1What are massage oils?
Massage oils can help reduce friction, enhance relaxation and even nourish the skin during a massage...
2How to use a massage oil
If you’re new to using massage oils, or even massage in general, here are our top tips for a blissful, relaxing massage...
3Using your massage oil
Less is more: start with a small amount of oil, about a 20p-sized dollop. You can always add more if needed...
Feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders? We’ve all been there. Daily stress can leave you feeling in knots, both physically and emotionally. But there may be a solution: massage.
Whether you treat yourself or share a calming moment with a loved one, a massage offers a chance to unwind and find peace.
What are massage oils?
Massage oils can help reduce friction, enhance relaxation and even nourish the skin during a massage. You can find many massage oils made using carrier oils like almond or jojoba oil, which work to keep your skin feeling soft and supple. Look out for any infused with essential oils – this gives them a delicious scent to create a more calming and tranquil atmosphere.
You can create a moment of peace and indulge in blissful relaxation by combining your massage with a luxurious massage oil, that glides effortlessly over the skin.
How to use a massage oil
If you’re new to using massage oils, or even massage in general, here are our top tips for a blissful, relaxing massage.
Before you start, make sure you’ve prepped your environment for utmost relaxation. Dim the lights, light some candles and put on some relaxing music to create a calm and inviting atmosphere.
You should also make sure to do a patch test first. Apply a small amount to the inner elbow and wait 24 hours to see if there's any irritation. It’s important to remember not to use massage oils on irritated, broken or sunburned skin as it can lead to more irritation and discomfort.
Using your massage oil:
- less is more: start with a small amount of oil, about a 20p-sized dollop. You can always add more if needed
- spread evenly: use your hands to spread the oil in a smooth, even layer over the area you'll be massaging. Remember to apply the oil to dry skin, as damp skin can make the oil too slippery and hard to work with
- focus on strokes: there are various massage techniques, but generally use long, flowing strokes with varying pressure target key areas: focus on areas that often hold a lot of tension like the back, shoulders, neck, and legs, but avoid sensitive areas like the face and genitals. You can find easy tutorials to follow on YouTube or TikTok, or just go with the flow and do what feels natural
- be mindful of pressure: communicate with who you’re massaging to make sure they’re comfortable. Pay attention to any areas they mention as needing extra TLC or avoid if they're sensitive
How to choose the right massage oil
Different massage oils have varying properties. For instance, grapeseed oil is a popular choice for its neutral scent and lightweight feel, but other options include almond oil, jojoba oil, and coconut oil.
If you’re looking for an aromatic massage oil to enhance your massage, you’ll find some on the shelves with added essential oils. Popular essential oils for massage include lavender for relaxation, peppermint for an invigorating experience, chamomile for a truly calming massage.
What are the benefits of massage?
It turns out that a massage can be wonderful for both your body and your mind. Beyond being a relaxing, indulgent experience, here are just some of the ways a massage could benefit you (or your recipient):
- may help to soothe tired muscles1
- can promote feelings of calm2
- can help to reduce stress3,4
The final say
Whether you’re a self-care enthusiast or want to pamper your partner, a massage oil is an essential for blissful relaxation. Selecting the perfect massage oil and using it like a pro, can elevate any massage and bring in a touch of luxury.
So, light some candles, play some calming tunes and transform your pamper night into a peaceful haven – your body and mind will thank you.
This article is for information only and does not constitute as medical advice. Please speak to your GP before using essential oils if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have skin sensitivity, pre-existing medical condition or any other reason for concern. Note that essential oils should not be applied direct to the skin unless it is diluted with a carrier oil first.
1. Field T. Massage therapy research review. Complementary therapies in clinical practice [Internet]. 2016 Aug 1 [cited 2024 May 22];24:19–31. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5564319/
2. Mark Hyman Rapaport, Schettler PJ, Larson ER, Carroll D, Sharenko M, Nettles J, et al. Massage Therapy for Psychiatric Disorders. Focus/Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing Online) [Internet]. 2018 Jan 1 [cited 2024 May 22];16(1):24–31. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6519566/"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6519566/
3. Yousefi H, Mojtaba Mirzamohamadi, Nazari F. The effect of massage therapy on occupational stress of Intensive Care Unit nurses. Iranian journal of nursing and midwifery research [Internet]. 2015 Jan 1 [cited 2024 May 22];20(4):508–8. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4525352/
4. Ten minutes of massage or rest will help your body fight stress [Internet]. ScienceDaily. 2020 [cited 2024 May 22]. Available from: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200918104305.htm
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