What is Swedish Massage?
The term Swedish Massage refers to a variety of techniques specially designed
to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones.
The muscles are rubbed in the same direction as the flow of the blood returning
to the heart. Swedish Massage (also
known as Classical Massage), was developed in the 1700’s by a Swedish
doctor called Per Henrick Ling.
What is the 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. Massage helps flush the tissues
of harmful deposits such as lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes—improving
recovery time from muscular strain. Swedish massage also stretches
the ligments and tendons, keeping them supple and pliable, as well as stimulating
the skin and soothing the nervous system.
What are the benefits of Swedish
Massage?
Swedish Massage not only feels exceptionally good, but is relaxing and invigorating.
It affects the nerves, muscles, glands, circulation, and promotes our general
health and wellbeing. As a treatment it helps reduce stress, both emotional
and physical, and is often suggested in a program for stress management. It
also has many specific medical uses.
Swedish Massage Techniques
The Swedish Massage technique involves a sequence of movements working at
first superficially, and then deeper into the tissue layers. As no two people
are alike the massage sequence is adapted to the clients needs.
Usual Sequence of techniques:
Effleurage: Gliding strokes with the palms, thumbs
and/or fingertips.
Petrissage: Kneading movements with the
hand, thumbs and/or fingers.
Friction:
Circular pressures with the palms of hands, thumbs and/or fingers.
Vibration: Oscillatory movements
that shake or vibrate the body.
Percussion: Brisk hacking or tapping
Passive movements like bending and stretching might also be incorporated.
How is it performed?
The client is covered in soft towels or sheets, which are turned back to reveal
only the area to be massaged at that time. A small amount of oil or lotion
is used to make the movements feel smooth on the skin.
A typical full body session usually lasts from an hour to an hour and a half.
Massage therapist that do this Treatment are:
Tigerlilly
Rose
Irene
Sara Gylany
Sekinah
Malini