Sensual massages can be very therapeutic and pleasurable, both for the person giving, and receiving the massage. It can create intimacy in a relationship, and can also spice up your connection in the bedroom. There’s no better way to create a sensual, erotic atmosphere than by giving your partner a massage, and we want to show you how to use candles to bring your massage to the next level – paving the way for hotter, naughtier activities. Whether it’s a special treat for Valentine’s Day, or just a special date night, a sensual massage is the perfect way to set the mood for romance. For a thorough massage that will please, and prime your partner, we have compiled this easy to follow guide to using candles, to make him want more. Preparation In order to pull of the perfect sensual massage experience, you will need to make sure you are prepared. A sensual massage, needs to take place in a sensual space. This can be your bedroom, living room, or any space that is relaxing, where you can set the mood. • The Massage Surface The first thing you will need to consider is what massage surface is available, and most appropriate. The best and most obvious choice is your bed. While a professional massage normally takes place on a massage table, a bed is the perfect setting for a sensual massage, because you won’t have to move rooms when the steamy stuff starts. With that said, if your bed is too soft, it might be wise to start your massage off on the floor, as a soft, spongy bed will work against you as you try to give a deep massage. You could also consider preparing a corner of your bedroom, or living room floor with a mattress and pillows/cushions to create a cosy space. Wherever you decide, be sure to prepare your massage surface by laying down some thick fluffy towels, or a freshly washed sheet, so your partner is comfortable and you don’t have to worry about the surface getting messy. Be sure to also ensure there is nothing unpleasant in the chosen space – rubbish in the bin, or soiled laundry in the hamper. Be sure you have a soft, thin pillow for your partner to rest their head on, and place a few drops of a calming essential oil at the top. Ensure that all phones and devices are turned off so that there will not be any distractions and place some extra towels or a blanket beside the massage surface to cover the exposed parts you are not massaging. Even if your partner if completely comfortable being naked in front of you, they will get cold once you have rubbed each area and then moved on. • Oil Any massage requires an oil of some sort, to avoid friction between your hands and your partners skin, but it’s purpose is more than just this basic function. The choice of massage oil can also dictate how much the skin is moisturized and what scent it provides during the massage. Some people like to use natural, organic massage oils such as almond oil, or olive oil. These are fantastic choices for massage as they glide on easily and don’t absorb too quickly. However, most organic oils can cause latex to weaken and break, so keep this in mind. The best oils to use for a sensual experience without problems, are those that double as lubricants. Some of them even have a cooling, or warming effect, and come in different flavors, so experiment and see what works for you. In terms of ‘tools of the trade,’ all you really need to give a sensual massage are your hands, but accessories are another possibility. You might like to use massage balls or rollers, but it’s probably more sensual to rely solely on the use of your hands. • Candles Candles are known for invoking passion and desire, so they can make or break a romantic evening, so take the time to choose the right ones. It is crucial to the massage experience to select the right candles, as they will set the atmosphere, lighting, and scent for the massage. Candles naturally soften up the ambience, creating a warm, inviting environment that will turn him on, as soon as he enters it. Candles also add an element of mystery to the setting and add subtle lighting that is flattering for a saucy session in the bedroom. When choosing a candle, make sure you buy enough for the space, but not so many that you light up the room dramatically. Candles should be scented and all the same scent, or of complimentary scents, so as not to have too many scents in the room. The right scent can stimulate the senses and trigger emotions in a very powerful way, so be sure to carefully choose the scent which will relax your partner’s (and your own) inhibitions and stimulate passionate feelings. Warming scents like Midnight Dream and Merlot will create a soothing, steamy atmosphere. Trust us, if you pick the right scent, your partner will respond very positively. If the massage is taking place on a special occasion, such as Valentine’s Day or an anniversary, consider starting the massage by giving your partner a bath. While he or she is soaking, create a pathway of candlelight from the bathroom to the bedroom and add in some scattered rose-petals. Remember - light candles in a place that is safe, where you won’t have to worry about it catching on any clothing or curtains, and away from any draughts so that the flame does not flicker and distract. And most importantly, a candle should never be left unattended, so don’t leave the room or fall asleep before blowing them out. • Music Music is optional, but can add to the romantic atmosphere. The kind of music you choose will determine the kind of environment you create, so choose wisely. If you want to give a relaxing, soothing massage, you will want to pick music that is calming – think nature music or Spanish guitar. If you want to create an environment that is sexually charged, go for something that is passionate, and will build as your partner fantasizes about what’s to come next – think tantric. Whatever you decide to use for your passion-filled evening, make a playlist in advance and set the volume to play quietly in the background. • Attire Take time to select the right outfit – this might be your raciest lingerie, your partner’s shirt, or a robe that can be ripped off at a moment’s notice. Whatever you decide, make sure it’s easy to work in, makes you feel confident and sexy, and will offer just enough ‘tease’. Just make sure it’s not too tight – there’s nothing hot about fainting. Giving the Massage Giving a racy massage might seem daunting for beginners, but it’s really just a series of relaxing, sensual motions such as rubbing, or kneading, and can be performed by anyone. The main thing is, if you feel relaxed and sexy, your partner will feel relaxed and sexy. Go with what your partner seems to like, and what intensity he appears to feel comfortable with. Start with the head, and work down to the feet, and remember – have fun!