Make a series of small circular pressures following the outline of the large circle that you made in the previous two moves. Press down with your hand and circle gently, then release the pressure and glide smoothly on about 1 inch (3 cm). You can press with any part of your hand - the palm, the fingers, or the heel- whatever fits the area most comfortably. The pressure should be rhythmic and firm; if it's too deep it can be painful, and is it's too light it can be ticklish. Work around the circle two or three times.



I often compare circular pressures to the gentle waves of the sea - undulating, calm, and rhythmic.

Add to your repertoire

In your abdominal massage you can include many of the techniques you have already learned plus some new ones. Here is a selection of movements that follow the previous sequence. You can use all, none, or just some of these movements before going onto the closing phase of the abdominal massage.

Kneading

Knead the whole area, starting with the hip on the side of the body furthest from you.

With your hands facing each other and your elbows sticking out, alternately squeeze and release the flesh - there is often a good handful to get hold of. Use deep and stimulating actions to work the whole hip thoroughly.

Work up the side of the waist and gently across the abdomen. If your partner is on the small side, you may find it easier to use just your fingers and thumbs rather than the whole of your hands. Lift, press, and squeeze the flesh ­without pinching - in several rows.

Side stroking

This soothing stroke is very calming after vigorous kneading action.

Keeping your hands relaxed, stroke slowly up the side of the waist. One hand follows the other as you stroke rhythmically and lazily in to the navel.

Lift your first hand off as you reach the navel and repeat. When working on the side nearest to you, either lean down and push up with your hands, or twist around to pull up with your hands.