Technique tips
Ready to give your sweetie an unforgettable massage? Here's how to get started. If you have a massage table, use it. But if you don't, a bed will suffice. "I like to start sitting Indian-style at the head of the bed with a pillow placed on my lap," says Boda. "Starting face up, lying on his back, I'll get him relaxed with pressure points on the temples. I'll start by closing my eyes and bringing myself down into a deep state of relaxation while slowly breathing and pressing on his temples." Boda says this is a slow process but your partner will feel your energy and will quickly melt into a relaxed state with you.

"I then proceed to massage the face, scalp, and neck for about 20 minutes," she explains. "Then, have him slowly turn over and massage his back for about another 20 minutes. When you are through with that, you can end the massage with light, gentle strokes up the back, lingering on the scalp and ending with pressure points on the temples."

Massage dos and don'ts
For an amateur masseuse, Boda offers up the following dos and don'ts that'll ensure both you and your partner get the most out of the at-home massage experience:

Do what feels most comfortable for your and your partner. "Effleurage, which is a long, smooth stroke, works well on most areas of the body," recommends Boda. "Reflexology, which is pressure points on the hands and feet, is really great to relax the entire body as well."

Do pay attention to what your partner likes. Pay attention to the areas they want you to focus the massage on and stay away from areas they don't want touched.

Don't massage over bones. "This is the mistake most people make who are not professionally trained," says Boda. "Massage the muscles and tissues, not bones!"

Don't go too deep. If you're not professionally trained, Boda warns to not apply too much pressure. Instead, opt for slow but firm strokes.

Don't use a rough, scattered or fast touch. This isn't soothing and doesn't work well when trying to create a romantic and relaxing mood.

Creating the right atmosphere using candles, mood lighting and music is essential when planning an at-home massage. Whether you're the one giving the massage or the lucky recipient, the environment you create will help you both to feel calm and relaxed. So flex those fingers, get them limber and ignite the flames of passion with your partner.