AIMS
· To decrease the sympathetic nervous system activity (fight or flight response) allowing a relaxation response to occur.

ATMOSPHERE
· diffuse lighting, soothing music, warm room, calm voice, private.

MASSAGE
· Should be full body.
· Movements should be slow, gentle and repetitive with a sense of continuity and flow.
· Techniques used are stroking, muscle squeezing, slow rocking, and broad kneading movements.
· Neck, abdomen, sacrum (tailbone), feet and shoulders are great areas to massage for anxiety reduction.
· Use a small amount of lotion to allow glide along the skin.
· Keep partner fully covered except for the area of the body on which you are directly working. anxiety
· Incorporate deep breathing (diaphragmatic) into the massage. (inhale into chest then ribs, then abdomen and exhale in the opposite order; slowly)

ESSENTIAL OILS
· Can be added to the massage lotion to further assist in the relaxation process.
· Lavender - promotes relaxation, reduces insomnia and anxiety.
· Bergamot - promotes relaxation, reduces insomnia and anxiety.
· Neroli - decreases smooth muscle spasm promoting relaxation.
· Rose - soothing and centring reducing anxiety.

SELF-CARE
· Decrease caffeine intake.
· Proper nutrition.
· Yoga, regular exercise.
· Stretching.
· Diaphragmatic breathing.

FREQUENCY
· Massage once per week for four weeks or until symptoms decrease and anxiety is diminished.