THE SENSUAL SANCTUARY

above and right: Whether alone, or with another, use scented rose soap, candles and chilled wine to add a touch of decadence to bathing.

We all know that it is important to occasionally indulge ourselves, and our partners, but how often do we actually do so? Creating a sensual haven - even if just for an hour or two - is one of the best ways of doing this.

The bedroom and bathroom are two places where it is fairly easy to create the right atmosphere. Dim the lights, play appropriate music, and select scents to suit your mood. Use creams, lotions, floral waters or perfumes to spoil yourself with, and enjoy a relaxing, luxurious bath or a sensual massage.

Rose and Sandalwood Bath Oil
Use this luxurious oil sparingly, a little will go a long way. The warm, spicy fragrance will linger on your skin after your bath.

you will need:
100ml/31/2fl oz almond oil
20ml/4 tsp wheatgerm oil
15 drops of rose essential oil
10 drops of sandalwood essential oil

Seductive Massage Mix
There is nothing like giving and receiving a massage to relax tension and create intimacy.

you will need:
105ml/7 tbsp grapeseed oil
5ml/1 tsp wheatgerm oil
5 drops of rose essential oil
3 drops of ylang ylang essential oil
2 drops of jasmine essential oil

For both blend, combine the ingredients and store in a dark-coloured screw-top bottle. Use as required.