Who in the world doesn't love a massage? Foot, back, neck, full body; Swedish, shiatsu, reflexology; some days, a massage is the only thing in the world that can make you release the inevitable tension that comes from living in the world and get your mind back onto really important things, such as your sweetie. If you are lucky enough to have a significant other who is proficient in the ancient art of massage, mazel tov. You may stop reading, but know this: We envy you. The rest of us will have to consult resources to

Therapeutic Massage

For those of you who don't fully appreciate the health benefits of therapeutic massage, start by visiting the American Massage Therapy Association. Here you may read all about massage, including scientific studies on the effects of massage therapy, definitions and types of massage therapy and state regulations for certified massage therapists. Finding a massage therapist provides tips on what to look for, what to expect and allows you to contact the AMTA so they can help you locate a massage therapist in your area.

If you still need convincing, AMTA ex-president Elliot Greene's Therapeutic Massage for Health and Fitness will tell you exactly how massage is beneficial to your body and psyche. A detailed description of lymph flow and blood vessels explains the physiological effects of massage on the system and how it relaxes, rather than excites you.

Sensual Massage

Of course, some people are more partial to the exciting effects of sensual massage. If you are new to this, you and your partner may want to check out Playboy's Complete Massage video, with six erotic massage sequences of Oriental and Swedish massage techniques.

Taking a slightly different tack, The Body Electric School offers classes in what they regard as the sacred art of erotic healing. The classes are all called "Celebrating the Body Erotic" and are available nationwide for men, women and couples. The school also offers products to help you in your journey to sensual massage Nirvana, including videos and massage tables.

For a wealth of appealing massage products, Passion Potions offers aromatic massage oils, massage cream and a handful of other treats such as the Earthly Delights Gift Tin. What could be more fulfilling -- jump-start your own sensual well-being, while also getting an early start on truly memorable holiday gifts!

Explore new worlds of relaxation, put a few new pages in the Kama Sutra -- whatever your approach, whatever the outcome, it's difficult to imagine the journey won't be an end in itself.