Breast massage is a loving way to get really familiar with our breasts and what their normal is. We can use breast massage as a tool for expanding awareness of our breasts but also to reduce breast pain, improve lymphatic flow, and soften dense breast tissue. Regular breast massage also improves hormonal balance. Here’s why: breast massage releases oxytocin (that all-important hormone of connection and love). Oxytocin is a beautiful antidote to cortisol, the hormone that our adrenals release in response to stress. Happy adrenals are the key to the smoothest menopausal transition possible. So when we massage our breasts we are creating a positive cascade of happy, feel-good hormones.

Here’s how to do it:
This is best done in front of a mirror, but if that feels hard, take it in baby steps! Pour a small amount of oil into your palms. Avocado, sesame, coconut or olive are nice choices. Or try our Wise Lotus Breast Massage Oil for a blend of oils that support healthy breat tissue. Place the oil on your breasts and begin to circle from the nipple outward with the flat part of the fingers, then reverse the direction. Take your time (3 minutes minimum) sending yourself love all the while. Finish by massaging toward the armpits. Take a moment to notice how you feel after engaging in this form of self-care.

A note to women who have had mastectomies or other breast trauma: it’s important that women who have experienced mastectomies massage the breast area as well. This can bring love and a gentleness back to the remaining tissue and facilitate emotional healing and connection to the body.

Here are some add-ons if you feel so inclined:
Include the neck, armpits, and the area underneath the collarbones.
To enhance nipple sensation and improve libido and sexual energy, try adding Kegel’s while you’re massaging.

We teach a more in-depth massage at our workshops, but keeping it simple is a great place to start. You can also download more detailed instructions here. There are many ways to make the whole process much more complicated for varying specific goals, but any loving attention toward your hardworking breasts will go a long way in keeping them healthy and you feeling more connected to your amazing body.