Massage: the beginning

Massage is a powerful tool for wellbeing. It can give us physical and emotional strength and help us to approach life in a positive way. In my work as a massage therapist I have seen massage change many people’s lives. It is easy to learn some basic techniques - encompassing touch and breath - that can be used in everyday life. Each week in my Stella column I will share with you simple ways to improve your health and happiness through massage. I will give you a kind of first aid kit for modern life, as well as opening you up to the mother of all senses - touch.

1. Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
2. Put your hand on an achy spot of your body.
3. Take a deep breath and direct it to that place.
4. Slowly breath out.
5. Repeat this as many times as you need to start to feel that your breath is brushing away the tension.

Originally published in Stella Magazine, the weekly supplement of The Sunday Telegraph