Most of the replies here are guys for girls... I'm a girl so mine have been the other way around, but the tips are the same.
Bubble bath is a near must - the heat relaxes and gets the person recieving the massage in the mood. I like starting the massage while in the tub with them - work the feet in the water, and the relaxing will start before you even get out. Music or no is up to you, but a quiet environment with no interruptions and distractions is ideal.
I like straddling the torso when I'm working both front and back, and guage your pressure by the responses of the other. If they are making contented moanings, or breathing deeply, that is a very good thing. Use a lotion - I love Sandwood Rose by B&BWorks, since its a great stress relief aroma. Always work from the core torso outwards - you want to help the blood flow move from the heart out to the rest of the body. For example, if you are massaging the arms, start at the shoulder/neck, and in long strokes with your decided pressure, press continously down the arms to the elbow or forearm, depending on what works for you. Do the same thing with the legs, up to the feet/toes.
The most important thing is to really be into the massage yourself. For me, this is a way of showing love to my partner, and ALL of my attention is directed into making it enjoyable for them. Being receptive to their knots and body movements will give you an idea how deep to go, and be sure to check in with them occasionally to make sure they're comfortable. It will also be a good idea to have water nearby when you are done, and before they attempt to move anywhere - ESPECIALLY if you have them in the bathtub beforehand. The heat of the tub combined with the release of toxins during the massage will make water a must to replenish the body.
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Calling from deep in the heart, from where the eyes can't see and the ears can't hear, from where the mountain trails end and only love can go... ~~~ Three Rivers Hare Krishna
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