SWEDISH MASSAGE

Massage is the oldest and simplest ‘hands on’ therapy treatment of gently stroking and kneading the muscles to relieve pain, stimulate, rejuvenate, relax and tone the entire body. The term Swedish massage refers to a variety of techniques specially designed to manipulate the muscles and joints to invigorate and revitalize the body by stimulating blood circulation and promoting relaxation. It is the most popular form of massage technique and is extensively practiced in many spas across the globe. This message form implements the kneading, circular movements and gentle flowing strokes of the hands to increase the blood circulation in the body.

History of Swedish massage:

Swedish massage did not originate in Sweden and there is no such thing as Swedish massage in Sweden. It is generally referred to as the classic massage and forms the basis of all modern massage therapy variations. This massage technique was in fact developed by a Swedish physiologist Per Henrik Ling who cured his rheumatism by medical gymnastics. Later a Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger adopted the French names to denote the basic strokes of this systemized form of Swedish or classic massage.

Techniques used in Swedish massage:

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 the muscles to enhance deeper circulation. It also aids in releasing of toxins from the muscles and nerve tissues.
3. Friction: This technique employs deeper penetrating massage movements to release knots like adhesions in muscles and joints. This massage is done with the fingertips, palm or thumb in circular motions.
4. Tapotement: This technique involves the implementation of percussive movements like rhythmic tapping with the fingertips 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.