Swedish Massage

What is Swedish Massage?

Swedish massage is a bodywork modality that is designed to help relax the muscles of the body. Swedish massage is performed by applying deep pressure to the muscles and bones of the body. When using Swedish massage, the massage therapist applies pressure in an upward fashion, towards the heart. Swedish massage is an effective therapy for maintaining and enhancing one's overall well-being for several reasons. One, it helps to rid the body of toxins and increases the circulation to the heart, thus enhancing the flow of oxygen within the blood. Secondly, Swedish massage can help manage pain, by helping make the body's tissues more pliable and flexible and by flushing them of metabolic wastes that can further the pain-spasm-pain cycle. Third, its relaxing effects can help alleviate psychological stress. In addition to being relaxing, Swedish massage can be invigorating as well, depending on the type of strokes used when applying Swedish massage.

Types of Swedish strokes include:

• Effleurage
• Petrissage
• Friction
• Tapotement
• Vibration

Effleurage

Effleurage is a series of long, gliding or flowing strokes, performed towards the heart. This is to help aid circulation and lymphatic drainage. Effleurage is used as the initial stroke to begin a massage, and is very calming when applied slowly.

Petrissage

Petrissage is one of the basic Swedish massage strokes, which is applied by kneading or wringing the skin or tissues. It is applied vertically to the muscle tissue. Petrissage helps to warm muscle tissue, break up or reduce adhesions, thus improving or restoring mobility.

Friction is a Swedish massage technique that aims to work on the deeper muscles of the body. Friction strokes are the most penetrating strokes used in the course of a Swedish massage. Friction strokes consist of deep transverse or circular movements made using the thumbs or fingertips. The therapist applies deep, circular movements near joints and other bony areas or prominences. Friction helps to break down adhesions, thus improving flexibility of the tissues within the body.

Tapotement

Tapotement is a Swedish massage stroke also known as percussion. It is a rhythmic percussion applied to the client's body using the heel of the hand or the edge of the palm. It is an effective technique for tired, cramped muscles, or when the client is seeking a stimulating, rather than relaxing massage.

Vibration

Vibration is a continuous trembling or shaking movement. This type of Swedish massage is soothing and can help relieve tension, resulting in a relaxing effect. However, when applied with greater pressure, it can be stimulating.