Take your massage video game to the next level. Sure, you can show up the heat in your relationship by dishing out a handful of cash for a costly couple's massage. Or you can take matters into your own hands - literally - and provide your partner a sensuous massage right in the comfort of your own home. After all, who knows your lover's satisfaction points better than you? Massages are fantastic for flow, the nerve system and, in general, easing stress. But that's not all an excellent rubdown can do, according to Massage Therapist Jeanetta Goddette. DO: Create a calm, distraction-free environment. Keep your mobile phone out of the room completely and leave the television off. The focus needs to be on the massage, nothing else. Instead, choose for soft, relaxing music to set the mood. DON'T: Set up on the bed. Massage surface areas ought to be firm but comfortable, so develop a soft location on the floor for your partner to lie upon.

DO: Consider the temperature. Goddette advises about 75 degrees. DON'T: Leave your jewelry on. Watches, rings, bracelets - remove them all to prevent skin-pinching snafus. And while you're at it, it might be a great time to cut your fingernails. DO: Use oil. A little bit of lubrication goes a long way towards making a massage really sensuous. When it pertains to selecting the type of oil, Goddette advises those particularly created for massage, like Durex Massage & Play Soothing Touch. DON'T: Pour that oil directly onto your partner's skin. Cold shock, much? Instead, pour the oil into your hands and allow your own body heat to bring it to the proper temperature before rubbing it into your partner's back. DO: Vary your massage strokes. Goddette. "You're not attempting to lull your partner to sleep." Instead, she advises mixing strokes to see what your partner genuinely takes pleasure in. DON'T: Treat your partner like a punching bag. Percussion is a vital part of any massage, however beware of the dreaded "karate chop" that can take place; too much pressure can cause a lot of discomfort.

To soften the blow, lay one hand flat on your partner's back, then strike your fist upon the flat hand to absorb the initial shock. DO: Concentrate on tension locations. Women tend to experience stress more in their neck and shoulders; guys in their lower backs. DON'T: Apply pressure to the spine or back below the ribs. Your kidneys are vulnerable and don't need to take a whipping. DO: Have lots of towels useful. We mentioned oil, and the more the much better; just beware that it can get messy (another factor to remain off the bed, folks!). DON'T: Insist upon a massage in return. Clapping your hands together and stating, "Me next!" is bad massage rules. Instead, Goddetter suggests "thinking about a sensual massage as a slow tease. You desire the pleasure and anticipation to develop." What happens next is absolutely up to you. This post was originally released at Durex. Reprinted with permission from the author.

It's an "extra method to help your partner reach a calm state of being." Plus, as Lara discussed, your hands and feet have "thousands and thousands of nerve endings," suggesting yes - it'll feel incredible. For the feet, "start on soles utilizing your thumbs utilizing a bit of pressure. Give a little bit of attention to the arches," Lara instructed. From there, you can carry on by providing each individual toe a little attention by carefully pulling on each one. Keyword: carefully. "Don't try to impress with your strength," Lara stated. If your partner has ticklish feet like me (seriously, I can't even take my shoes off without squirming), make certain you ask before attempting to massage them. Otherwise, all bets are off and someone's getting kicked. 5. Give a head massage. You know that feeling of pure happiness your canine gets when you scratch him? I promise after one head scratch you'll feel the very same way.

For a head massage, Lara suggests not using any oil because that will not be fun to attempt to leave your hair. Using your thumbs, massage the top of the skull. "with all fingers, massage the side of the head sluggish." Similar to the rest of the body, go easy and do your finest not to squash your partner's head as much as you may wish to. While the person on the getting end might most likely lay there all the time, we don't blame you for getting a little bored while giving the massage. Even if you aren't bored, your hands will surely get worn out. Do not be lured to hurry through it. According to Lara, 20-25 minutes is the ideal quantity of time for a massage. "Going too brief your body won't know what's going on," she stated. The massage can't last forever. 7. Give your partner the expense. Okay, so you do not wish to actually bill your partner for your services (or possibly you do, I don't understand your life). "billing" your partner is a unexpected and eccentric end to the massage. So whether your "expense" is the pledge of a massage in return or a home-cooked meal, it's a cute way to have some fun with your partner. Micki Spollen is a YourTango tourist, writer, and editor. Follow her on Instagram and stay up to date with her travels on her site.

Or you can take matters into your own hands - literally - and provide your partner a sensual massage right in the comfort of your own home. When it comes to picking the type of oil, Goddette recommends those specifically developed for massage, like Durex Massage & Play Soothing Touch. If your partner has ticklish feet like me (seriously, I can't even take my shoes off without squirming), make sure you ask before trying to massage them. "billing" your partner is a wacky and unforeseen end to the massage. Whether your "expense" is the promise of a massage in return or a home-cooked meal, it's a charming method to have some fun with your partner.