Touch, as you probably know, is one of the most potent senses. So if you're looking for a sensual way to reconnect with your guy and jump-start further intimacy, treat him to a deliciously indulgent massage (and get him to return the favor!) All you need is a bottle of lotion and a pair of imaginative hands. Here's the rub:

Massage area

A soft, cushy bed is pefect for lovemaking, but when it comes to giving a massage, the surface should be firm, flat and stable. For maximum comfort, try a well-padded futon mattress that supports the back nicely and doesn't rock or sway when pressure is applied on the body. Set up the mattress in a space that is both private and comfortable, and have your guy lie on it. Put on some soft music if you like, and dim the room by using candles or soft lightings.

Oils and lotions

Massage oils and lotions reduce friction and let you knead and stroke your guy's tired muscles without pulling on the skin. Essential oils can be used as a scent: "Several drops added to your massage lotion can further your partner's ability to relax," explains Peggy Morrison Horan, author of Connecting Through Touch and a founder of the Esalen Massage program at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, CA. Many men prefer woody tones such as sandalwood and cedar while women often enjoy the flower essences, such as jasmine, lavender and rose, adds Horan.