The Book of Massage: The Complete Step-By-Step Guide to Eastern and Western Techniques

The classic guide to the relaxing and healing skills of the hands, from massage to shiatsu and reflexology. Beautifully illustrated, with dear step-by-step instructions and authoritative advice on all aspects, The Book of Massage will teach you the power of the human touch -- this ancient and expressive language without words.

Soothe away stress and tension
Relax and forget your cares
Develop your healing powers
Understand your body signals
Banish headaches and back pain
Experience health and vitality
Learn the pleasure of caring
Feelloved and valued
Develop your sensitivity
Cope with the pressure of life
Share the language of touch

With more than 650,000 copies sold, massage therapist Lucinda Lidell's Book of Massage has been updated with new photos and instructional drawings. Not for the prudish, as the subjects in most of the photos are completely in the buff, the book presents an intense, information-packed, step-by-step guide to traditional massage, shiatsu, and reflexology.

No matter which method you choose to focus on (you're advised to choose one at a time), Lidell is thorough in her explanations of the strokes and techniques necessary to give relaxing, therapeutic massage in the privacy of your own home. Detailed drawings, diagrams, and photographs help to further demonstrate how to address each individual body part.

Divided into distinct chapters for each of the three methods, The Book of Massage also includes several sections that Lidell stresses are fundamental to all types of massage. The first is "Beginning," with information such as creating the right atmosphere (a warm room and soft lighting), applying oil, and finding a comfortable position. Additionally, Lidell suggests that everyone should review sections on the human touch and anatomy, both of which oddly come at the end of the book.

As thorough as The Book of Massage may be, do not expect to walk away from it an expert. As with any skill worth learning, giving good massage takes time, study, and practice, practice, practice. --Bree Altman