So, What IS The Difference Between Sensual and Erotic Massage?

It’s true that the terms “sensual massage” and “erotic massage” are often used interchangeably.

I’ve done it here on this website many times.

However, the meanings of both types of massage mostly come down to context and intent.

So, a distinct definition for both types of massage deserves to be offered.

The Meaning of Sensual Massage…

The focus of a sensual massage aims to engage the senses of the client. All 5 of them.

So, stimulating the senses—sight, touch, smell, hearing and even taste if you wanted to bring in food and drink—all helps to create a deeply relaxing and intimate experience.

Ultimately it’s about enhancing the overall relaxation and pleasure of the client/receiver. This can be a very healing and beneficial experience. Even spiritual if the practitioner of the massage is very present and has a certain skill level. The energy can shift to a point where healing on an energetic/spiritual level takes place.

That’s a truly sensual experience.

Sensual massage can involve the erogenous zones, the focus is more on the overall experience of touch of the entire body. It’s the feeling of connection and relaxation that is the main intent of sensual massage rather than solely on sexual arousal.

This accomplished in large part because of the massage techniques the practitioner used during the sensual massage. These mostly include long, flowing strokes and light, soft touching. The use of quality oils and body lotions are part the experience.

Sensual massage can be part of a couple’s bonding experience. Of course, it’s possible there nay be a sexual outcome, that is not the ultimate goal of a sensual massage. With an erotic massage, that is absolutely the intent and expected out come.

Sensual and erotic massage can also be offered as a paid service. There are many places in the world where a sensual or erotic massage can be performer legally.

I wrote a short list that shows which countries support sensual and erotic massage as a paid service.

**It’s interesting to note that Wikipedia does not distinguish between sensual and erotic massage. Their page lumps them together along with the purely sexual terminology that often goes with this. You can find the page here...**

The Meaning of Erotic Massage…

Erotic massage is specifically designed to stimulate sexual arousal. It often focuses more directly on the genitalia and erogenous zones and is intended to bring the client or receiver of the massage to an orgasmic ending.

The primary goal of erotic massage is to heighten sexual desire, leading to sexual activities through the techniques the practitioner/giver performs.

It involves direct stimulation of the genital area and other sexy places on the client/receiver’s body.

Erotic massage is usually more explicit in its intent and can be used as part of the foreplay for a sexual encounter.

The boundary between massage and sexual activity is much more fluid.

I was a certified massage therapist with many years experience and worked on 100s of clients over the years. I know the benefits of massage first hand.

Massage of any type can and should be used to help others – whether the receiver pays for it or not. It’s an intense experience for both people.

Probably the most important aspect of massage is the intent and expectations on both sides.