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If you're stressed and the idea of a massage sounds like the perfect remedy but isn't in your budget, an at-home massage can be a cheaper alternative. It's easy with the right tools, tricks of the trade and, of course, a partner.

Have your partner lie down, facing the ceiling. Position a pillow under your partner's knees. Put some lubricant in the palm of your hand and warm it by rubbing your hands together. Gently place your hands on your partner's shoulders. This gives your partner a chance to get used to your touch and allows you a moment to focus. Slowly slide your hands toward the edge of your partner's shoulders, continue along the upper back and up the neck, stopping at the base of the skull. Repeat this three times.

Carefully pick up your partner's head and turn it to the left. Slide the heel of your hand from the base of the skull to the edge of your partner's shoulder. Repeat this three times and then do this on the other side of your partner's neck.

Return your partner's head to its original position. Place your hands on their shoulders like you did when you started the massage. Gently push in on your partner's shoulders, like a cat.

Move to your partner's side. Reapply your lubricant and slowly spread the oil or lotion from your partner's wrist to the edge of the shoulders. Release your pressure as you go over the elbow joint. Repeat this three times. Hold your partner's hand and "milk" the hand, slowly kneading down each finger. Go to your partner's other side and repeat this on the other arm.

Now you're ready to move to the lower part of your partner's body. Begin by kneading your partner's feet. Be willing to spend extra time massaging the feet. Few things feel as wonderful as a foot massage. After the massage, your partner will likely only remember the foot and back parts of the massage. When you feel ready to move on, gently stroke the leg, starting at the ankle and ending at the top of the thigh....

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