It's unbelievable…

It comes before you know it.

You never seem ready, year after year.

This is the season when you are more prone to stress than ever. cooking, cleaning, guests, travel, shopping in major crowds are enough to make you want to pull your hair out!

Yes it's true; the Holiday's are a time of celebration and cheer. great food, family, friends,
and unfortunately, increased Stress!

And although it's now commonly known that prolonged chronic stress negatively affects our health and wellbeing, it's equally as damaging to
our relationships and intimacy.

So by now you're probably wondering what this secret weapon is.

No, it's not booze!

It's human touch. Are you surprised? Most people are and seem almost disappointed when I mention it. But the truth is it is one of the best ways for couples to help each other reduce and manage stress, experience numerous health benefits and increase
intimacy all at the same time.

The touch that I am referring to is the amazing power of massage.

If I were to list all the health benefits of massage it would literally take up most of this article. Benefits such as stress relief, improved circulation, improved skin tone, as well as relief for insomnia and muscular aches and pains, are just the beginning.

When you regularly share massage with your spouse or partner, not only are you improving your health but you are also improving intimacy and the bond that you share.

Here are some simple quick steps that anyone can use to harness the power of a mind
blowing full body massage:

First, you need to make sure and stay away from bone. This can be quite uncomfortable and even painful so stick to working on muscle or tissue that's soft. If there is any doubt, just stay away from that particular area.

Tell your partner what you like and don't like. They can't read your mind! In order to get the best possible experience tell them what feels good and ask them to do more of it. When they are massaging in a particular way that you like, let them know that it feels good and ask them to keep doing it.

Listen carefully to your partner about what they like and do more of it. You can also communicate with them while you are working on them to see what they prefer. Keep in mind that preferences can change so keep the lines of communication open – on a particular day they might want something different.

Don't apply too much pressure. Leave deep work to the pros! Your job as a couple is to nurture each other and create a stress free environment for increased intimacy.Don't try and work a knot out or treat an injured area. Just focus on developing a nice steady flow to your strokes and before you know it, your partner will be on cloud nine!

Create a relaxing atmosphere. Make sure you use plenty of candles for soft lighting, great relaxing music and make sure that the temperature of the room is comfortable for both of you.

Never use massage as a manipulative tool or use it as a way to get out of trouble.Massage is supposed to enhance trust and provide a safe nurturing place for both of you. Be careful not to misuse it by trying to solve issues or problems you that you might be having in your relationship. However, you can use massage after you have worked out a problem or difficulty; it is perfect way to communicate how much you care without actually having to say it.

Have fun!!
Don't worry at first about being perfect. It is all about enjoying each other and enjoying life.

Also don't worry if you are limited on time. It doesn't always have to be a full body massage it can be a 5 minute shoulder rub, 15 minute foot rub. Try trading a scalp massage before bedtime or an arm and hand massage while watching a movie, or just enjoying the holiday decorations together.

So in conclusion, the most important thing is to make a point to nurture each other by using massage on a regular basis. It won't have long term profound affect if you do it once every few months. Schedule a regular time for longer sessions with oil, and stick to it. After all, it is your relationship and your health. So start now and enjoy!