Techniques used in Swedish:
Let us now explore in detail this wonderful healing technique and how it can be customized to suit a person's specific needs and requirements. The following are the basic Swedish massage strokes adopted to achieve its relaxing and healing effects.
1. Effleurage: It is the gliding or stroking movement employed for spreading oil. It involves long strokes starting from the neck to the hips. The glides are in the direction of the heart to enable even flow of blood and lymph. When done on the limbs the strokes are focussed towards the heart to facilitate blood and lymphatic flow.
2. Petrissage: It involves kneading, compressing and squeezing of the muscles to enhance deeper circulation. It also aids in releasing of toxins from the msucles and nerve tissues.
3. Friction: This technique employs deeper penetrating massage movements to release knot like adhesions in muscles and joints. This massage is done with the finger tips, palm or thumb in circular motions.
4. Tapotement: This technique involves the implementation of percussive movements like rhythmic tapping with the finger tips or with the edge of the hand. This aids in relieving cramped muscles and relaxes the overall body.
5. Vibration: It consists of rapid shaking by applying pressure on the back or limbs. A continuous trembling, pressing movement is made with the hands or fingers and usually done at the end of the general body massage to give a finishing touch.
Benefits of Swedish massage:
It is a feel good massage which invigorates and exhilarates the entire body. It aims at improving the overall well-being of the body by reducing stress and tension. It is believed to alleviate pain, muscular strain, spasms and stiffness. It helps in releasing the mood enhancing chemicals, the endorphins. Swedish massage also stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and reduces inflammation caused due to strenuous exercise.Swedish massage is the therapeutic form of massage that comes to mind when people think of a complete body massage. This form of massage improves blood circulation, decreases muscle toxins and eases tension. Fix an appointment for a Swedish massage today and feel the difference.