subject: Swedish Massage: Remedy Hurts Sooner [print this page] How great! I just had my first (but not last) Swedish massage. I only recently discovered what many Americans, as well as Europeans have known for a couple of centuries. Now that I have had one, I know the benefits. This is more recent a massage than some of the more ancient ones. The technique was developed in Stockholm, Sweden, just a few centuries ago. It relieves tension by rubbing muscles in the direction of the blood flow. This is in order to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood.
Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue. This is done to enhance function and promote relaxation and well-being. If you are looking to modern medicine to cure your issues, maybe you are looking in the wrong place. The art of massage dates way back, back to over 3000 years. It has been documented by the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians. They all applied forms of massage for many ailments. Hippocrates even wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. Are you interested in finding how this art of massage is practiced? Many, many, many methods, over 250 to be precise, are used.
As more people learn about the benefits of Swedish massage therapy, employment in this field is growing. As independent contractors, massage therapists usually have their own equipment which consists of special massage tables and chairs are used to position clients during massages. A typical commercial massage table has an easily cleaned, heavily padded surface, and a horseshoe-shaped head support that allows the client to breathe easily while lying face down and can be stationary or portable. This is cleaned between massages, keeping everything very hygienic. An orthopedic pillow or bolster can be used to correct body positioning.
When performing a Swedish massage, the masseuse will use five basic strokes. These are sliding, kneading, tapping, friction and vibration. Poor circulation, as well as joint stiffness and pain can be relieved by these motions. The skin can be stimulated by using lotion. It also helps with the reduction of friction.
If you have ever had a body massage, you will know that in general, specific areas are targeted. The difference between regular massages and Swedish is that Swedish targets both body and mind. We will feel less stress and more harmony. We will feel like our bodies are in sync. This assists the body in healing both mental and physical scars. The theory behind Swedish massage is that it is for everyone. Even pregnant women.
Even pregnant women can receive a Swedish massage. This can alleviate muscle spasms and discomfort which we all know can be associated with pregnancy. This can also help with breathing problems associated with pregnancy. For me, as a mother of 3 girls aged 9 and under, I wish I had known about pregnancy massages when I was pregnant. This would have been the best gift I could have received. I now know that massages can help eliminate waste products from the mother through the lymphatic and circulatory system, thus giving the mother more energy. Find your local spa. Get a massage!. It will enrich your life immensely!
