Massage

by Cheng-Ling Chen — January 9, 2008

My cat Miso loves it when I give her a massage. She tilts her head against my fingers when I scratch behind her ears. She stands straighter and taller when I rub between her shoulder blades. Her favorite is when I run my fingers under her chin. Miso closes her eyes and throws her head all the way back, baring her long neck and purring luxuriously.

Miso's not the only one who loves massages. I went for a 60-minute massage recently thanks to a gift certificate from a generous friend. It had been a long time since my last massage. The moment the masseuse pushed her palms firmly into my back, I felt something release inside, as if my whole body let out a big sigh. The pressured touch, particularly on my upper back and neck, felt so painfully comforting, I teared up.

Massages feel so delicious. They also promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being by:

• Calming the nervous system
• Reducing stress
• Improving circulation
• Relieving muscle aches and cramps
• Providing deep relaxation

If going to the spa is not something you can fit into your schedule or budget, you can still treat yourself to a soothing massage. You'll need some massage oil. Below is a good one you can make right at home. It is particularly soothing for application right before bedtime:

Combine 1 ounce of olive oil (alternatives include sweet almond oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, safflower oil, and sunflower oil) with about a dozen drops of sandalwood essential oil. Shake and mix well.

Take a hot bath or shower to relax, open the pores, and warm up your system. Pour some massage oil into your palms. Rub your hands together and feel the oil heat up. You can hold your palms over your face and inhale deeply to take in the natural fragrance of the oils. Sandalwood has an exotic aroma with calming properties. Massage the oil into your temples, jaw, neck, and shoulder blades. Feel the muscles of your face and upper body loosen and relax. In a slow, deep, circular motion, gently kneed your fingers or knuckles into the top of your shoulders and chest. Stress is often held in these areas, the muscles tightening as tension rises.

As you massage, be aware of how it feels to take care of your body. Savor the moment. Relax and really let go, falling into sweet dreams.