This is a method that came to us from ancient Tibet. It is based on the interaction between the skin and the biologically active substances in honey, and it includes the mechanisms common to other forms of massage as well. It is counted among the reflexology techniques - a distinctive combination of bee honey and massage.
A marked improvement in circulation in the deeper layers of the skin and the muscles beneath may improve the supply of nutrients to the tissues.
As the honey releases its biologically active substances, it binds impurities on the surface of the skin, which is why this massage is used to support lymph flow and cleanse the skin.
After a honey massage the skin becomes silkier and more elastic, subcutaneous lumpiness smooths out, and general well-being improves.
A course of honey massage is usually 15 sessions, given every other day. It matters that the massage is not done daily but with a day's break in between.
What do you need for the massage?
Honey - natural flower honey, lime honey or any other, with no additives, and definitely not crystallised.
Aromatic oils can be added to the honey: lemon, orange, mandarin, grapefruit, juniper, eucalyptus, lavender or petitgrain.
The proportion is 5 drops of oil, or of an oil blend, per teaspoon of honey.
For massage of the thighs and buttocks, 2 teaspoons of honey and 5 drops of oil are enough.
Examples of honey massage blends:
- 2 teaspoons of honey, 5 drops of lemon oil, 2 drops of eucalyptus, 2 drops of lavender
- 2 teaspoons of honey, 3 drops of lemon oil, 2 drops of orange, 2 drops of lavender, 3 drops of juniper
- 2 teaspoons of honey, 5 drops of lemon oil, 5 drops of orange oil
- 2 teaspoons of honey, 3 drops of lemon oil, 2 drops of lavender, 5 drops of peppermint
The honey and oils are mixed immediately before the massage. If several oils are used, the oils are blended first, then the honey is added and stirred in thoroughly.
Honey massage technique
The honey is spread on the palms and transferred to the area being worked with light patting movements. Part of the mixture stays on the body, part on the hands. If there are several areas, each is worked in turn.
Once the honey has been fully transferred onto the body, the palms stick firmly to the skin and are then pulled away sharply. Gradually the patting becomes quicker and stronger: the hands press more firmly and are lifted more sharply. The honey works into the skin, leaving only a thin film on the surface.
A white mass then begins to appear on the hands. At first it comes out and stays on the skin; later most of it transfers to the palms. The procedure takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
The honey is then washed off with warm water and a soft sponge. After the massage the skin should always be treated with a moisturising cream.
Bruises may remain in places afterwards; they fade with time. The first sessions can feel noticeably uncomfortable, after which the skin adapts and the massage becomes much easier. If the pain is strong or bruises form easily, tell the therapist so the intensity can be reduced.
Honey massage is not suitable for people with an allergy to bee products, damaged skin, varicose veins or bleeding disorders, or during pregnancy. If in doubt, consult a doctor first.
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Chocolate massage is perhaps one of the most pleasant and sensual treatments there is - full relaxation on both a physical and an emotional level. Natural chocolate is a rich source of vitamins, trace elements and antioxidants.
A chocolate mass of natural origin is applied to the body, and the massage itself is performed with light, relaxing movements - stroking, kneading, circular motions, patting and elements of lymphatic drainage. Under the movement the chocolate mass melts, moisturises the skin and saturates it with nourishing substances. The treatment can be done on the whole body or on the face alone. The best result comes when a body scrub is done beforehand. The procedure lasts from 30 minutes to an hour and a half. Afterwards it is enough to take a shower and apply a cream or lotion suited to your skin type.
Chocolate massage can also give a light lifting effect, leaving the skin firmer and more elastic, and it supports metabolic processes. By stimulating cellular metabolism and improving microcirculation, this kind of massage helps the skin look healthier and more radiant. Chocolate wraps are often included in body-shaping programmes and in programmes aimed at reducing the appearance of cellulite, including in the postnatal period - after consulting a doctor.
Beyond that, this massage has a good effect on general well-being. Chocolate is often described as a mood lifter, and thanks to its tannin and caffeine it has a mildly stimulating effect - think of the student's advice to eat a bar of chocolate before an exam. The smell of chocolate works as a kind of aromatherapy too: it is often associated with celebrations and childhood memories and brings up plenty of positive emotions. A chocolate massage is very pleasant and practically painless. The main contraindication is an individual intolerance of chocolate or cocoa.
So if you are often under stress or simply feel low on energy, sleep poorly, would like to work on your figure and improve skin firmness, reduce the appearance of cellulite, or just relax and enjoy a pleasant treatment - a chocolate massage may be a good choice.
Thanks to the more than 800 molecules found in chocolate, this product:
moisturises and tones the body; saturates the skin with active substances; gently tones the nervous system thanks to its caffeine and tannin; enriches the skin with minerals such as calcium, potassium and magnesium; conditions and nourishes the skin; helps lift the mood.