Massage With Essential Oils
The Massage Step By Step:
The Leg:
Effleurage (Smoothing Stroke): This is a smooth, sliding movement which soothes the skin and distributes the oil. Always worked in the direction of the heart, effleurage improves circulation lymph flow and the function of the muscles. It is used between movements throughout the massage to provide continuity and to prepare a new area with oil.
- Seated to the side of your partner, begin with one hand at the heel, brushing in an upward, sweeping movement to the buttock ridge and sliding round to the thigh.
- As the first hand comes round the thigh, place the other hand at the heel and brush with an upward sweep, ending at the back of the knee.
- As the second hand comes off, cross the first hand over and begin the movement again from the heel up to the thigh. Repeat the sequence about six or seven times, keeping the movements continuous and flowing, and then repeat on the other leg.
Ankle Thumbing:
The ankles are an important centre of energy, and this movement helps to relieve congestion.
- Sitting at your partner’s feet, cradle one ankle gently with your hands, allowing the thumbs to sit naturally above the heel.
- Keeping the rest of the hand still, apply a light pressure with the thumb as it brushes in an upward and outward movement.
- Repeat with alternate thumbs, continuing in a rhythmic sequence for about 30 seconds.
Flushing:
Flushing drains the lymph channels and stimulates the circulation. This movement should not be used on anyone with severe varicose veins.
- Sitting at your partner’s feet, gently slide the thumbs up the middle of the leg, ending at the back of the knee.
- Slowly bring the hands back down to the ankles by brushing down the sides of the calf muscle, taking care not to drag.
Kneading:
Move back round to the side of the leg for this movement. It is particularly effective for relieving tension at the back of the legs.
- Place the hands gently on the calf, one at the top and one just above the ankle.
- Grasp the calf muscle firmly with both hands and slide them toward the centre of the calf, lifting the muscle.
- Using gentle pressure, knead the area by bringing the fingers and thumbs together and raising the muscle further.
Wringing:
- Place the hands on opposite sides of the calf, just above the ankle. Gently glide the hands past each other so the heel of one hand is pushing away from you while the other hand is pulling.
- Keep the thumb of the pulling hand raised so the thumbs don’t collide as they pass each other each time.
- The hands alternate the pushing and pulling all the way up the calf and down again. The pressure should be firm but gentle.
