Massage has long been known to relax muscles and reduce stress. It is also thought to improve circulation and cleanse the body of toxins. But, best of all, it makes you feel good. Always wail about ten minutes after finishing a bath treatment before starting a massage to allow your energy levels to return to normal. Work smoothly and rhythmically to leave yourself feeling as relaxed as possible, and use a massage oil or your normal body moisturizer.

1 - Sit in a comfortable position. Apply some oil or moisturizer to your hands, wrap them around one calf to spread the oil, and massage upward using a circular motion. Repeat the movement five times and then work on the other leg;

2 - Place eight fingers on the middle of the calf and pull upward. This stimulates the lymphatic system. Repeat the process on the other leg.

3 - Grab the fat on one thigh with one hand, gently pull upward, and twist the flesh, applying pressure with your thumb. Repeat with the other hand, alternating the action for about five minutes. Repeat on the other thigh.

4 - Massage the arms to release tension in the shoulders. Using one hand, stroke firmly up the other arm, from the wrist to the shoulder. Repeat on the other arm.

5 - Use a kneading movement all the way up the arm, concentrating on any fleshy points. Repeat on the other arm.

6 - Lie on your back and knead all over the abdomen using your fingers and thumbs. Roll onto one side to repeat the strokes on your hips and buttocks. Repeat on the other side.

7 - Stand up. loosely clench your fists, and pummel your buttocks and hips as fast as possible. (As this is a vigorous action, you might want to omit it if you are doing the massage just before going to bed.)

Once a week, or when you have more time to spare, extend your daily massage to work further on key areas such as the waist, arms, and legs. These are points where fat can easily build up and muscles lose their tone. Start by pinching the fat as if you were kneading, concentrating on the points shown below, then massage firmly around the point for about five minutes. This helps boost blood circulation to these key areas, as well as stimulating the lymphatic drainage system. As with the daily massage, cither use your body moisturizer or a special massage oil.

1 - Start working on the top three points shown; these are good for firming and toning the breasts. Begin by pinching the flesh and then massage firmly around the points.

2 - Move down and work on the three points around the stomach to break down fat and give a firmer appearance. Begin by pinching the flesh and then massage firmly around each point.

3 - Now focus on the points on the arm. which arc good for toning and firming any flabby areas. Begin by pinching the flesh ami then massage firmly around each point. Repeat on the other arm.

4Finally, work on the three points on the leg to help tone and firm the whole area, and prevent water retention. Begin by pinching the flesh and then massage firmly around the points. Repeat on the other leg.