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What is a Swedish Massage?
The term "Swedish Massage" refers to
a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying
pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same
direction as the flow of blood returning to the
heart.
Swedish massage was developed in the 1700's
by a Swedish doctor named Per Henrik Ling.
Purpose of Swedish Massage?
The main purpose of Swedish massage is to
increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles.
Swedish massage shortens recovery time from
muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other
metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It
stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Swedish
Massage also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves
themselves at the same time. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and
is suggested in a regular program for stress management. It also has many
specific medical uses.
Swedish Massage Techniques?
Traditional Swedish Massage techniques
include: long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration,
effleurage, and shaking motions. The usually sequence of techniques are:
 | Effleurage: This consists of
long, gliding strokes from the neck down to the base of the spine or from the
fingertips up to the shoulder. 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.
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| Petrissage: This 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.
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| Friction: This 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.
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| Vibration or Shaking:
Vibration is a continuous shaking or
trembling movement transmitted from the therapist pressing his or her hands on
the back or limbs, and rapidly shaking for a few seconds. This form of
massage is soothing and brings about relaxation and release of tension when
applied lightly, it is stimulating when applied with pressure.
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| Tapotement: This 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. |
Benefits of Swedish Massage?
Swedish massage feels good, is relaxing and
invigorating. It affects the nerves, muscles, glands, and circulation, while
promoting health and well being.
What Should I Do After Having A
Massage?
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Drink plenty of WATER before and after your
session. During a massage metabolic
waste, or
toxins are released. Increasing your water intake will assist your body in
removing those toxins.
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Take a hot Epsom Salt bath.
The
high magnesium content of the
Epsom salts promote the release of lactic acid from muscle tissue. An Epson
salt bath can be helpful anytime you are suffering from aches and muscle
strain. It is also an excellent idea after having a massage to relieve any
generalized soreness from treatment to a particularly tight area.
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Directions for use:
Add 2-4 cups in a full
bath of hot water.
Drink 4-6 cups of water
during or after bathing to avoid dehydration.
May apply a cool cloth to
forehead or neck for comfort.
Soak for at least 20
minutes.
Lay back, relax and enjoy!
| As with any hot bath, get out of
the tub slowly. Rinse off to cool your body, with a cool shower, or use a cold
cloth when leaving the bath. Rest for about an hour to balance out your body
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