Beyond the Senses: Essential Oils in Sensual Massage

Our senses are powerful gateways when it comes to healing and very well known in the world of tantric massage.

But the whole massage experience isn’t solely based on touch. In fact, relaxing music, sensual touch and sense of smell all adds to any immersive massage experience.  Our Masseuses are skilled in how to create the best immersive sensory experience, to transport you to a state of heightened awareness and pleasure.

Aromatherapy combined with massage therapy of any kind can enhance the experience and provide various therapeutic benefits. Here is a brief overview into aromatherapy used for sensual massage.

Carrier Oils

But essential oils are too strong to be added directly to the skin. Before we delve into essential oils, the right carrier oil is essential for creating that much-desired comfortable and pleasurable experience.

When choosing your oil, it is essential to take into account, potential allergies, skin sensitivities and personal preferences. A patch test is also recommended to check for adverse reactions. We would also recommend using a high quality, cold-pressed and preferably an organic oil for your massage base.

Here are some of our recommendations for good carrier oils:

• Sweet Almond Oil: This oil is a popular choice for sensual massage: It is light, non-greasy and easily absorbed by the skin. It’s also Hypoallergenic, and suitable for most skin types.
• Coconut Oil: Other than having the lovely tropical scent of coconut, this oil is moisturising and leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth. An excellent option, but as Coconut oil comes in solid form, it will need to be warmed up before use.
• Jojoba Oil: Another excellent choice for a massage oil, as it closely resembles the natural oils in our skin. It is also easily absorbed and non-greasy. Jojoba oil is also ideal as a skin moisturiser.
• Grapeseed Oil: A lightweight and odourless oil that can easily be spread. Grapeseed oil can promote healthy skin and also is rich in antioxidants. This is a good oil to use for sensitive skin.
• Olive Oil: This humble kitchen ingredient can also be used for sensual massage. It does have great moisturising properties. The only thing to note is the distinctive olive scent, which may not be to everyone’s taste and may mar the scent given when using essential oils.
• Sunflower Oil: Another firm kitchen favourite but a light and non-greasy option for massage. Suitable for various skin types and known for its nourishing properties.
• Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is used in Ayurvedic massage. It has a slightly nutty aroma which again might not be everyone’s preference.  However, it can be very warming and good for those who prefer a slightly heavier oil.

Sensual Essential Oils

Once you have the base oil, then simply add a few drops of essential oil which fragrances the carrier oil. There are so many different essential oils that can enhance different feelings: Deep relaxation, invigoration and sensual/sexual feelings. We are here to explore different combinations, but here are some of the more renowned essential oils associated with enhancing any sensual experience.

• Ylang-Ylang: A sweet, exotic and floral aroma, Ylang-Ylang is a popular aphrodisiac and often used in sensual massage oils and perfumes.
• Jasmine: Jasmine has a sweet, rich and floral scent and often used to set a romantic mood. It is believed to be both relaxing and arousing.
• Sandalwood: Sandalwood has a grounding woody and earthy aroma that also creates a sense of intimacy. Popular for incense and essential oils for sensual experiences. It can also be used to create a calming environment.
• Patchouli: As with sandalwood, patchouli can be used to sooth, but the strong earthy scent can also be found seductive and erotic. It is often used in body products and scented candles for those intimate moments.
• Rose: The familiar scent associated with romance and love. The sweet and floral aroma of rose can enhance a sensual mood.
• Ginger: Ginger has a warm and spicy scent that can also be invigorating as well as stimulating. It can be used to create a sense of passion.
• Cinamon: Cinamon with its spicy and warm aroma can be both arousing and comforting. It is used in various products and recipes meant to set a romantic mood.
• Cardamom: This scent is warm, sweet and spicy with a faint citrus note. It is used to create atmosphere and enhance sensuality.
• Black Pepper:  Black pepper has a spicy and stimulating aroma that creates the feeling of excitement and heat.

Conclusion

Preferences and associations of various fragrances will vary depending on your and depending on your partner.  Overall allergies and insensitivities are key as well as open communication.

Any essential oil should be used in moderation to avoid overwhelming the senses.

From there experimentation will help you find and even create the perfect massage oil to maximise your intimate experience.