| Traditional Swedish Massage covers
a wide range of massage applied to soft tissue which includes
the skin, muscle, tendons, ligaments and fascia, utilizing
a range of techniques and strokes. These strokes and techniques
include: Long strokes, "kneading of muscles", Percussive
techniques, rolling of fingers, and vibration, to name just
a few. This massage also employs oils that are beneficial
to the skin. It improves circulation, eases muscle aches and
pains, improves flexibility, and provides overall relaxation.
De-Stress (Relaxation) Massage
Known to reduce blood pressure, boost the immune system and
regulate the endocrine system, regular relaxation massage
is one of the best things you can do to aid your body in combating
stress and it's unhealthy effects on the body.
Swedish Massage uses five main strokes, and many variations,
to achieve its relaxing and healing effects. Many therapists
use a variety of techniques.
Effleurage consists of long, gliding strokes
from the neck down to the base of the spine or from the shoulder
down to the fingertips. When done on the limbs, all strokes
are toward the heart to aid blood and lymphatic flow. It is
done with the whole hand or the thumb pads. Effleurage is
designed to acquaint the therapist with his or her subject’s
body and vice versa.
Petrissage involves gently lifting muscles
up and away from the bones, then rolling and squeezing them,
again with a gentle pressure. It generally involves kneading
and compression motions - rolling, squeezing, or pressing
the muscles to enhance deeper circulation. Petrissage attempts
to increase circulation with clearing out toxins from muscle
and nerve tissue.
Friction is the most penetrating of the
strokes, and consists of deep circular or transverse movements
made with the thumb pads or fingertips. The therapist applies
deep, circular movement near joints and other bony areas (such
as the sides of the spine). Friction breaks down adhesions,
which are knots that result when muscle fibers bind together
during the healing process, thus contributing to more flexible
muscles and joints.
Tapotement consists of a series of briskly
applied percussive movements, using the hands alternately
to strike or tap the muscles for an invigorating effect. There
are many variations on this stroke. It may be applied with
the edge of the hand, with the tips of the fingers, or with
a closed fist. Tapotement attempts to release tension and
cramping from muscles in spasm.
Vibration, or Shaking, involves the therapist
pressing his or her hands on the back or limbs, and rapidly
shaking for a few seconds. It boosts circulation and increase
the power of the muscles to contact. Vibration is particularly
helpful to people suffering from low-back pain.

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