continued from previous page Raking: Spread your fingers and, keeping them somewhat stiff, rake them down the back from shoulders to buttocks. This releases deep, underlying tissue tensions. Lower Back: The lower back and sacrum (the downward-pointing triangle located between the buttocks at the end of the spine) can become congested and tender, especially in premenstrual women. Lightly masssage this area with small, circular strokes on buttocks, hips, and upper thighs. With a man, use lower back spirals. Starting at the top of the crack between the buttocks use your thumbs to make small spirals upwards along either side of the tailbone to the top of the sacrum, then press your thumbs along the top of the hips and move them out, across and down the side of the body to the floor. Repeat several times. Buttocks: Try "Thumbs over the Mountain." Starting at the bottom, press your thumbs firmly into the flesh of the buttocks and follow the curve up, around, and down the side of the hips. This can be a tender and sensitive area, so use only as much pressure as your lover can comfortably tolerate. Return to the first position and move your thumbs apart slightly to describe a second curved line that is parallel to and outside the first, continuing until you have no curve left to follow. Repeat several times. Thighs: Once you get to your lover's thighs, you may find yourself getting distracted and decide to shift your focus to other kinds of touching. Or you may want to try out some massage strokes of your own design. Or you can ask your partner to turn over and continue the massage with a few more strokes to the front of the body. Shoulder and Chest Presses: Kneeling behind your partner, as he or she is lying face up, press down on the shoulders and hold. Ask your partner to take a deep, releasing breath, and let the essential oils work their magic as you increase the pressure of your hands slightly. At the end of the exhalation, release. Slide your hands up and over your over's clavicle, or collar bone, and press very gently. Have him or her take a deep breath as you hold, then release. Now move your hands to the center of the chest, (between a woman's breasts) and, laying one hand on top of the other, press very gently. Have your partner take a deep breath and release. Sexual Energy Release Points, Neck and Ears: Encourage your lover to breathe in a deep and relaxing manner as you gently massage his or her neck, making small circles over the release points on the upper neck and about halfway up the ears. If the massage is a prelude to lovemaking, now is a really good time to let the kissing begin. Remember, too, that a woman's breasts are highly charged with erotic energy and can create a dramatic arousal response when massaged or caressed. Improvise! Okay, you're on your own from here. I have a feeling everyone will do just fine.