What is Swedish Massage

Swedish massage refers to a combination of techniques, used to relax the muscles through application of pressure, while rubbing in a direction similar to the flow of blood back to the heart. (definition of Swedish Massage ) A therapist uses lotion or oil, in combination with basic strokes to achieve this relaxation.

Different clients have different therapeutic needs, but it is the massage therapist who determines the right sequence of strokes that will fit various needs. The therapist will normally begin with general or broad strokes, proceed to specific or detailed strokes, and then end with broad connecting strokes that target the problem areas.

Prior to this massage, the therapist has to inquire whether you have previous injuries so that he or she takes care not to damage but rather facilitate the healing of surrounding tissues.

The actual massage begins after the therapist has applied the oil. As a client, you have the opportunity to decide which parts of the body you will need to be rubbed gently, and those that will need intense pressure.

The main function of Swedish Massage , however, is to facilitate the increased flow of oxygen in blood, while at the same time releasing toxic substances from body muscles. Whenever you have a muscle strain, Swedish massage shortens the recovery period by flushing out uric acid, lactic acid and the related metabolic wastes.

Besides soothing the nerves and stimulating the nervous system, this form of massage is recommended for the reduction of physical and emotional stress. It has five distinctive stroke techniques which include:

Swedish Massage Techniques

Effleurage

This technique features long and gliding strokes, that are performed using the palms, thumbs or fingertips. They are essentially soothing strokes, which are used to apply lotion on the body, alongside helping the therapist to evaluate the extent of muscle tension. As the strokes increase in pressure, the client’s muscles stretch so that he or she feels relaxed.

Friction

This is also called a warming stroke, and it is meant to generate heat quickly as the body prepares for some deeper work. Similarly, it is an effective way through which the therapeutic healing effects of plant-based oils are spread through the whole system of muscles. It is mostly done by rubbing back and forth across the muscle length, using circular movements.

Petrissage

This is characterized by stokes that are rolling, kneading, lifting and ringing. It is very effective in freeing the muscles that are either bound or knotted. The technique also stimulates nerve endings and increases blood circulation which consequently advocates for the regeneration and repair of muscle cells.

Vibration

This is an indication of the trembling and vibrating movements which are normally applied to a single limb, or at times to the entire body. The movements are either slow or rapid, but in both circumstances they cause a vibrating effect to the surrounding tissues. This is helpful in breaking muscle-holding patterns, so that tension is momentarily released from the muscles that are under massage.

Tapotement

This is a collection of percussion strokes, whereby the therapist moves the hand rhythmically to stimulate nerves, circulation and muscles. The hand in this case may be held with flat palms or in a cupped position. Tapotement is used to end a specific stroke sequence, and prepare the client for a different posture. If he or she was lying with the face down, the technique creates room for the next posture, where the face will be up.

Swedish Massage Benefits

The technique has proved effective in dealing with anxiety. It is therefore used to relieve major stress symptoms while at the same time curbing depression. Similarly, it is a good type of workout because the pressure applied during these therapeutic techniques spreads to all body systems, inclusive of ligaments, nerves and muscles. The movements resulting from the pressure are in line with the natural flow of blood, which greatly stimulates the lymphatic system.

When you suffer muscle strain, Swedish Massage will not only shorten the recovery period but also increases the flexibility of muscles, so that they are not easily overworked by little pressure. When you do it regularly, this massage increases the elasticity of your muscles, and significantly relieves pain.

Overall, Swedish Massage is not just an ordinary soothing of muscles, but rather a therapeutic technique that has a lot of health benefits to the body.