Working out the kinks of the muscles; healing of the mind and spirit; relaxation – these are the numerous benefits of a massage. As you may already know, there are different massage techniques available which should be administered only by trained therapists. These individuals go through lectures and practical training to hone their skills. One of the many massage techniques available which promotes overall relaxation, alleviates pain, helps increase blood circulation and provides other health benefits is a Swedish massage.
The technique was developed by a Swedish physiologist in 1812 and the term denotes the basic massage strokes designed to relax the muscles through application of pressure deep into the muscles and bones. Another characteristic of a Swedish massage is that it involves delivering rubbing movements in the same direction as the blood going towards the heart. This means that the aim of the massage is to increase the flow of oxygen in the blood, while also releasing toxins in the muscles and body.
Other benefits of Swedish massage include:
- Alleviating stress
- Flushing out the metabolic wastes in the body
- Stretching the tendons and ligaments to keep them supple, flexible and pliable
- Stimulates the skin cells
- Benefiting the overall nervous system
- Soothing and calming the nerves
- Healing the mind and spirit
What are the Techniques Used in Swedish Massage?
If Swedish is a massage technique, it’s interesting to note that there are sub-techniques used by therapists in administering a Swedish massage. Take a look at some of them and how they help heal the body:
- Effleurage
Starting from the neck down to the base of the spine and from the shoulders down to the fingertips, a therapist uses long, gliding strokes using the palms, thumbs and fingertips. Since this is a sub-technique of a Swedish massage, the strokes are directed towards the benefit is to improve blood and lymphatic flow.
- Friction
In almost any massage technique, friction is needed to work out the kinks in the muscles. With Swedish massage, circular pressure using the palm of the hands, thumbs and fingers are used.
- Passive and Active Movements
Bending and stretching using passive and active movements are required in this sub-technique for a Swedish massage. Variety is important, so the therapist should have the muscle strength and flexibility to work these movements when massaging a patient.
- Percussion
This sub-technique involves using the fingers and palm of the hands for tapping or brisk hacking while working on the muscles.
- Petrissage
Another common stroke used in most massages is called Pettrisage where kneading movements are used. The muscles are gently lifted up and away from the bones, rolled and squeezed using gentle pressure.
- Vibration
Also called oscillatory movements, this involves strokes that make the patient’s body shake or vibrate.
All in all, Swedish massage is known in most parts of the world as a healing, relaxing technique. It also serves as a foundation for other types of Western massage like deep tissue, aromatherapy and even sports massage that helps athletes always be on top of their game. If you’ve had a bad week at work due to stress or you simply want to have some me-time, you definitely should prioritize booking a Swedish massage with a certified therapist.