subject: Learn How Swedish Massage Can Reduce Tension And Feel Rejuvenated [print this page] The first thing one should do when in search of a Swedish massage is to make sure the therapist is a trained licensed professional that can produce credentials. When you have found a therapist the next step is to ask them if a therapeutic Swedish massage would be the right solution for your condition.
Swedish massage is just like any other massage therapy and is the most popular type of massage used to help a person feel more vigorous, dynamic and rejuvenated. The overall health of a person can be improved by focusing on massage points which relieves stress & muscle pain. A Swedish massage can also be used to treat daily aches and pains, muscle tension and other conditions.
Swedish massage therapy uses a long smooth stroke with a gentle kneading motion to the person being massaged.
Most of the United States population is often perplexed by the term "Swedish massage" when in reality it's just a "classic full body massage". This massage technique was created by Pehr Henrik Ling that focuses on the mind and the body relationship by massaging with specialized motions to sooth aching muscles and relieve tension.
The massage therapists will have you lay prone (face down) on a massage table with the face resting in a face cradle which can be adjusted to ones comfort level.
What to expect from a Swedish Massage
1. Massage oil or cream will be applied to eliminate skin friction
2. The back will be massaged first starting from the top of the shoulder area and will be finished with effleurage strokes on the posterior region of the thighs and legs.
3. Next you will be asked to turn supine (face up) to continue with the massage. When in the position one starts with the neck region and continues with the arms, hands, legs and will gently end with a foot massage.
4. Therapist will use different pressure and intensities to treat the numerous muscles in your body according to the client's needs.
There are 5 movements that are usually related with Swedish massage they are:
Effleurage - kneading and rubbing parts of the body to increase circulation and promote relaxation. Uses sliding and gliding movements, applied using fan-style stroking, circle-stroking, and other movements.
Petrissage - massage of the skin which is gently lifted and squeezed. This method uses kneading motions to milk soft tissues in order to dispel waste and accumulated toxins and bring fresh blood and oxygen into the muscle and to promote relaxation of the tissue and body.
Tapotement - massage in which the body is tapped rhythmically with the fingers or with short rapid movements of the sides of the hand; used to loosen mucus on the chest walls of patients with bronchitis. Uses rhythmic tapping, often performed with different parts of the hand (edge, back, palm, etc.).
Friction - creates heat and circulation and used in areas such as tendons and ligaments due to low or no blood supply. Deeper friction is used for in cases such as trigger points and tender areas.
Vibration, or shaking - is a physically challenging stroke that is applied with the fingers by the therapist to induce circulation, pain relief and increased blood flow, which can enhance relaxation.
Most massages should be done by a licensed professional massage therapist that will guarantee, you are being treated with the best possible service.
You would be astonished how this type of massage therapy can improve your health's condition and can make you feel healthy without tension. If your goal is to feel better and relaxed visit you're nearest licensed professional massage therapist and make an appointment for a relaxing Swedish massage session.
