This Valentine’s Day, give a special touch to everything you have planned by ending the evening with a super fabulous massage just for her. This selfless act is not only a super romantic way to make her feel special and show her how much you love her, but it also gives her a chance to relax and be pampered by you. So get ready to rock her world with a sexy and sensual massage that she’ll hopefully never forget!

getting ready:

Step 1: choose the space

So, before you get to the part where she’s almost (or completely) naked and covered in oil, make sure you have everything thought out. It’s important to create a comfortable space free of distractions (ie cell phones turned off) where you can set the mood for a romantic massage. The bedroom is probably an ideal place for most, but creating a smooth surface on the floor works great too. If you’re going to use the bed, make sure it’s well prepared by using clean sheets (don’t mind getting oil on it, as it can stain) or even covering the bed with towels. Presentation is important here, so make sure it looks good, and whatever you do, no sticky beach towels! If you’re desperate, look at the dollar store for some white or neutral-colored towels or sheets that won’t cost you too much. Staining your 600 thread count Egyptian cotton bedding with massage oil is not romantic!

Step 2: Set the mood

Now that you’ve chosen the space, it’s important to make sure you have all the massage items that are essential to setting the mood and creating the right environment. It’s up to you how far you want to take it, but things like scented candles (avoiding anything too scented or strong), rose petals, and soothing music are great ways to create a relaxing and romantic atmosphere.

Step 3: Get the products

Having a good massage oil on hand is essential to achieve a relaxing experience for both of you. Avoid anything overly strong smelling and look for massage-specific products, as they provide the nicest texture and won’t absorb too quickly (reapplying every minute ruins your flow). If you’re looking for an alternative to massage oils, there are also massage sticks that melt on contact with the skin, as well as massage candles that work like hot oil when poured onto the skin. Although they provide the most pleasurable experience, you don’t necessarily need fancy massage products to get the job done. In a pinch, you can use a rich body butter, baby oil, or sunflower oil, adding a few drops of an essential oil for fragrance. Olive oil is an absolute no! Smelling like a Greek salad is not a good way to get her in the mood. Also avoid lubricant. Sure, it works, but it’s also suggestive and a bit crude. Let’s stay classy.

Application techniques:

Step 4: Give the massage

Now, the most important part; giving an amazing massage. Once you are lying down, place a pillow under your feet to make you more comfortable. Carefully pour some massage oil into your hands and rub them together. This warms the oil and is better than pouring it directly onto your skin, which can be cold and a little chilling. Avoid using too much oil, which will make the massage slippery and difficult (you can always add more). Slow and continuous movement is important for a good massage. Allow one stroke to lead to another, while slowly shifting to other areas of your body. Start with the neck and shoulders, using your thumbs and fingertips to gently knead the skin. Apply less pressure to your neck, as this area is often very sensitive to touch. Gradually move in a circular motion from the upper back, out to the sides, and then down to the lower back. Apply additional oil as needed and continue down both legs (focusing on one leg at a time), until you reach her feet. Massage the soles of your feet in steady circular motions with your thumbs, applying a little more pressure to avoid tickling.

Step 5: Know the Pleasure Points

Pay attention to the areas of his body that are not stimulated frequently. Try stroking erogenous zones like the back of the knees, ears, nape of the neck, and wrists. Be sure not to forget to massage your scalp, as this area is often overlooked during a massage. Just make sure your hands are free of oil if you go near her hair, or that good idea may not go down so well with her.

Step 6: Get their feedback

Communication is the key to an amazing massage. Always pay attention to her body language and how she responds to different strokes, the level of pressure, and where you are massaging her. If you’re not sure, gently ask what feels good and if the pressure is okay. Spend more time on the areas to which you respond positively with verbal cues or physical cues of enjoyment.

Other considerations:

Keep distractions to a minimum. This experience should be about the two of you connecting and enjoying your time together, so cell phones, TVs, and any other possible distractions should be removed.

Avoid rushing and reserve enough time. To give a massage properly, you should spend at least 20 to 30 minutes on it. The slower and longer you can massage it, the more relaxing and sensual the experience will be.

Turn up the heat, literally. It’s no fun being exposed and covered in oil when you’re freezing. By keeping the temperature above 75 degrees F, you will ensure that she stays warm and comfortable so that you can enjoy the experience.

Be gentle. Go easy, Hulk. It’s important to remember that the pressure level you might prefer is probably not the best one for her. It’s delicate and women are much more sensitive to touch than men, so it relieves pressure. Unless she requests otherwise, she will generally prefer light, gentle petting.

Don’t forget the extras. This all depends on your relationship level, personal preferences and your imagination. Incorporating other elements can eventually take a sensual massage into naughtier territory and be a perfect way to spice it up a bit. Items like feather ticklers, warm lubes, blindfolds, and edible body paint are all great ways to add some sexy fun.