Hand Massage for Relieving Stress and Tension

There are five different movements in the hand massage. These movements bring a sense of relaxation and help absorb the oils into the bloodstream.

For this massage, as it is specifically for relieving stress and tension caused by traumatic events, we will be using the following blend of oils.

Lavender, Bergamot, Ylang Ylang, and Clary Sage. Mix 1 drop of each into 5ml carrier oil (Eg: Grapeseed oil).

So, let’s jump right into it:

Step 1:

Place a couple of drops of the blended oil onto the palm of the hand and spread the oil across the palm side of the hand.

Hand Massage 1

Step 2:

Turn the recipient’s hand over and while holding both sides of the hand, stretch the tissue at the top of the hand by moving your thumbs from the centre to the outer edge.

Hand Massage 2

Step 3:

Turn your partner’s hand over again so that the palm is facing upwards and begin the regional tissue pull. Starting in Region 1, move your thumbs in small circles while applying medium pressure. Work in a counter clockwise direction to Region 2 and finally Region 3. This way the entire surface of the palm receives the calming soothing oil.

Hand Massage 3

Step 4:

This step is the five-zone ‘thumb walk’

Begin at the base of the thumb by the wrist and ‘walk’ up the length of the thumb using mild pressure with your thumbs. Do this same movement three times on each finger before moving the next. End this section with the pinkie (little) finger.

Hand Massage 4

Step 5:

To perform the Inter-phalangeal pull, use your thumb and forefinger to pull the soft tissue in between the thumb and forefinger away from the wrist. Perform this movement 3 times between each finger before moving on to the next.

Repeat each step of the hand technique on the recipient’s other hand.