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Step 1
Ensure that your recipient is relaxed and comfortable. Have him remove any necklaces or jewelry that might interfere with the massage. It would be best for your partner to lie flat down on his back--on a massage table, preferably--with his arms placed neutrally at his sides.
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Step 2
From behind, cup the back of the head with both hands, placing your four fingers at the base of the skull. With your whole body, lean gently back and lift the head up. Leave your fingers in place at the base of the skull, where they should comfortably anchor themselves.
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Step 3
Gently, stretch the neck up and forward. Lower the head, and gently turn it to the left. One hand should rest under the neck, and the other under the skull or on the forehead. Push down on the right shoulder, while also gently pulling the head to the left. Repeat for the opposite side, and return to the neutral position.
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Step 4
Sweep your hand along the side of the neck, working your way along all the major muscles. If you gently cup the base of the skull, the traction can allow you to perform a long sweep down the side of the neck and down to the shoulder. Repeat for the opposite side.
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Step 5
Let your fingers come to rest at the base of the skull. Then, with one hand, scoop under the neck. With your thumb, knead the muscles all along the side of the neck in sweeping, circular motions. Repeat for a few minutes.
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Step 6
Under the base of the neck, cup both your hands, and turn them inwards such that the backs of your fingers lightly touch each other. Gently sink your fingers into the neck, on either side of the vertebrae, and glide your fingers back and up to the base of the skull. Repeat for a few minutes.
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Step 7
Return the head to neutral position. To finish, you can softly massage your partner's head with the tips of your fingers. Move through the hair, working around the ears and the base of the skull. Transition into long, raking strokes, and work the muscles all along the skull.
