What’s A Yoni Massage And Why Should You Try One?

African American woman trying a yoni massage

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When it comes to sex – with a partner or with yourself – there can be a mad dash to that orgasm. Sometimes, your partner rushes to theirs without even considering yours. But, your vagina and entire body deserve more attention and time than a few fast-paced moments under the sheets. And there is a lot more to get out of sensual moments besides that big O. Connecting with your body on an intimate level can have emotional and mental health benefits. This is something that was recognized long ago by healers in ancient Indian communities who created the yoni massage. Perhaps you’ve heard of the yoni massage and were curious about it. Because it can represent different things for different people, there is some mystery around this ancient healing practice. Here’s a look at what a yoni massage is, its benefits and how to perform one.

What Is A Yoni Massage?

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Yoni comes from the Sanskrit word “vagina,” which translates to “sacred place.” This word sets the tone for the experience of the yoni massage, because it’s meant to remind you how powerful the vagina is, and how central it is to physical and emotional health. In simple terms, a yoni massage involves several massaging motions over the vagina, stomach, legs and breasts. It is done slowly, with prolonged attention on each body part.

Yoni massage is part of the tantric practice, which typically involves deep breathing, yoga, and meditation to boost sexual energy. However, it is not intended to be solely erotic, and in some cases, isn’t sexual at all. The main goal of a yoni massage is to help you be more in tune with your body, learning what feels good to you and what your body wants. A yoni massage gives you the opportunity to explore what feels good, without the added pressure of pleasing a partner. The focus is entirely on your body and your sensations.

While there are certainly physical upsides to the yoni massage – and orgasm sometimes occurs – many people say that it’s more of an emotional and/or spiritual experience.

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The Benefits Of Yoni Massage

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While there are no research-backed benefits of yoni massages, there are many anecdotal ones from those who have experienced them. Some of these include:

Releasing sexual trauma. Performing a yoni massage regularly can help sexual trauma survivors feel more in control of their sexual experience, reconnect with their bodies and learn to approach sexual experiences in a positive way.

Release your inner strength. Many healing gurus see the yoni as part of the root chakra and state that it holds much of your inner power. Yoni massages helps unlock that power, helping you feel more confident and energized.

Improve partner relationships. When a yoni massage is practiced with a partner, it can help your partner better learn what feels good to you, as well as promote intimacy. (One study out of the University of Missouri and referenced on Plusher.no found that couples who regularly massage each other stay together longer.)

Improve the body-mind-connection. Because this practice is done slowly, you’re given the chance to tune in to what’s happening in your mind/with your emotions while certain physical sensations are occurring.

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How To Perform A Yoni Massage

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When you are ready to perform a yoni massage, there are a couple of things to do before you begin:

Create an inviting space. This can be on the floor, on your bed or on a comfortable couch or loveseat. Add items with a nice sensation like soft blankets and throw pillows. Dim the lights, or consider lighting candles. Put on calming music (preferably without lyrics, so you can focus on your own thoughts). And perhaps light candles with relaxing scents like lavender, or something uplifting like tea tree oil.
Set an intention. Think about what you hope to get out of this experience. Do you want to reconnect with your body? Do you want to improve your experiences with your partner? Are you perhaps looking to heal trauma?
Take slow, deep breaths. Do several rounds of slow, deep and controlled belly breaths before you begin. You’ll keep up this style of breathing throughout the practice.
Warm your body. Rub your hands together to create heat. Perhaps add a few drops of essential, skin-safe oil. And rub your hands over your body to warm yourself.

Yoni Massage Motions To Try

Because a yoni massage is about exploring what feels good to you, there is no right or wrong way to do it. The idea is to give yourself plenty of time to explore different sensations. Some motions to try include: