Melt Away Stress with These Simple DIY Massage Oil Recipes 💆♀️✨
Massage is a wonderful way to nurture your body and mind. Taking a little time out of your busy day to give yourself a soothing massage can help you unwind, relax, and feel rejuvenated.
One way to enhance your massage experience is by using naturally nourishing oils. While there are many commercial massage oils available, making your own blends at home is simple and affordable. Plus, you can customise the scents to your liking!
The benefits of regular massage are numerous. It can help:
- Reduce stress and promote a sense of calm
- Ease muscle tension and stiffness
- Improve circulation
- Encourage better sleep
Below I’ll share some easy recipes for homemade massage oils using skin-friendly carrier oils and optional essential oils. However, it’s important to note that these blends are intended for relaxation and self-care purposes only. If you have any specific health concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional.
When using essential oils, always:
- Dilute them properly in a carrier oil. A 1-2% dilution is typically recommended for adults.
- Do a patch test first to check for any skin sensitivities or allergies.
- Avoid applying essential oils to broken, irritated, or sensitive skin.
- Be cautious if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical conditions. Consult your doctor before use.
The foundation: carrier oils 🥥
These nourishing base oils are used to dilute essential oils and carry them safely onto the skin. They also provide their own moisturizing and skin-loving benefits.
Some of the best carrier oils for massage include:
- Coconut oil: Deeply moisturising and solid at room temperature, making it ideal for a slower, more luxurious massage. Melts quickly with body heat.
- Jojoba oil: Closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum, making it easily absorbable and suitable for all skin types. Non-greasy and shelf-stable.
- Sweet almond oil: Rich in vitamins A and E, this lightweight oil is known for its skin-softening properties. Absorbs well without leaving a greasy residue.
- Grapeseed oil: A light, non-comedogenic oil that’s perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin. High in linoleic acid, which can help regulate sebum production.
When selecting a carrier oil, consider your skin type and personal preferences. You can also mix and match oils to create a custom blend that works best for you.
Recipe 1: Lavender lullaby 💜
This soothing blend is perfect for a bedtime massage to help you drift off to dreamland. Lavender is known for its calming and relaxing properties.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (120 ml) of carrier oil of your choice
- 40-48 drops of lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Pour the carrier oil into a clean, dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- Add the lavender essential oil and gently swirl to combine.
- Label the bottle with the name of the blend and the date.
- Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Use within 6 months for best freshness.
To use, gently warm a small amount of the oil between your palms and massage into the skin using smooth, gliding strokes. Take deep breaths and let the soothing scent of lavender envelop you.
Recipe 2: Chamomile calm 🌼
This gentle blend is perfect for soothing frayed nerves and promoting a sense of tranquility. Chamomile essential oil is known for its calming properties and can also help to nourish and soothe the skin.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (120 ml) of carrier oil of your choice
- 40-48 drops of chamomile essential oil
Instructions:
- Pour the carrier oil into a clean, dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- Add the chamomile essential oil and gently swirl to combine.
- Label the bottle with the name of the blend and the date.
- Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Use within 6 months for best freshness.
To use, gently warm a small amount of the oil between your palms and massage into the skin using smooth, gliding strokes. Take deep breaths and allow the soothing scent of chamomile to melt away your worries and tensions.
Recipe 3: Frankincense fusion 🙏
This grounding blend is perfect for when you need to quiet your mind and find your center. Frankincense essential oil is prized for its ability to promote relaxation and emotional balance.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (120 ml) of carrier oil of your choice
- 40-48 drops of frankincense essential oil
Instructions:
- Pour the carrier oil into a clean, dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- Add the frankincense essential oil and gently swirl to combine.
- Label the bottle with the name of the blend and the date.
- Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Use within 6 months for best freshness.
To use, gently warm a small amount of the oil between your palms and massage into the skin using smooth, gliding strokes. Take deep breaths and allow the earthy, meditative scent of frankincense to ground you in the present moment.
The art of massage: Tips for a relaxing experience 💆♀️💆♂️
Now that you have your luxurious homemade massage oils, it’s time to put them to good use! Here are a few tips for creating a relaxing massage experience:
- Set the scene: Create a calm, soothing atmosphere with soft lighting, relaxing music, and a comfortable massage surface. Ensure the room is warm enough for your partner to relax without feeling chilled.
- Use smooth, flowing strokes: Start with gentle, gliding strokes to warm up the muscles and promote relaxation. Use long, smooth strokes in the direction of blood flow towards the heart.
- Adjust pressure: Check in with your partner and adjust the pressure according to their preferences. Some people prefer light, soothing touch, while others enjoy deeper pressure.
- Communicate: Encourage open communication throughout the massage. Ask your partner if the pressure is comfortable and if there are any areas they would like you to focus on or avoid.
- Breathe deeply: Take slow, deep breaths and encourage your partner to do the same. Focused breathing can help to deepen relaxation and release tension.
Remember, the goal is to create a soothing, nurturing experience for both giver and receiver. Take your time, stay present, and enjoy the peaceful connection of massage.
Make time for self-Care!
In our busy, stress-filled lives, it’s more important than ever to prioritise self-care and relaxation. Making your own massage oils and taking the time to give yourself or a loved one a soothing massage is a wonderful way to unwind, de-stress, and show yourself some much-needed TLC.
Remember to always use essential oils safely and responsibly. Dilute them properly, do a patch test before use, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions.
I hope these simple, luxurious massage oil recipes and tips inspire you to create your own relaxing rituals at home. Take a deep breath, let go of your worries, and allow yourself to melt into the soothing power of touch and aroma.
