If your recipient doesn't like a technique, drop it and try another. [Care Breast]
Always remember that the recipient is your teacher. [Care Breast]
Ask your recipient questions about how you can improve your technique. [Care Breast]
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Ask your friends if they can show you some good massage techniques. [Care Breast]
As much as possible you should try to keep some physical contact with the recipient during massage. Lifting up can lead to tension and a startling effect, especially when the person is very relaxed. [Care Breast]
Keep your contact as broad as possible. Don't poke. [Care Breast]
If you want to relax your recipient use long slow movements. If you want to energize the recipient, use fast, but not erratic movements. [Care Breast]
Make sure your hands are warm and if you use cream or oil, be sure to warm it by briskly rubbing it in your hands. Don't put it straight on the skin.
Make sure the room is a comfortably temperature and that the recipient is warm enough. Use a blanket if necessary.
Make sure your recipient's positioning is comfortable.
Once the recipient has 'approved' a technique, take note of it and try to always do this technique as closely as possible to the way the recipient likes it.
Don't talk too much - especially when the recipient is trying to relax.
Approach the massage gradually - never rush in with a high level of intensity.
Test, listen and adjust.
Never see yourself as a therapist. You don't treat - you're just trying to make the recipient feel good. If you want to become a therapist, you should seek proper massage therapy training from either a certified teacher or a certified massage school.