Swedish Relaxation Massage
Swedish relaxation massage
So there are many many different styles of massage. Perhaps the most common one is Swedish massage.
This is the most popular of all traditional European styles of massage. Developed by Per Henrik Ling in the 1700s, who merged Western and Eastern healing techniques, it was the first organized and systematic method of modern therapeutic massage in the Western world..
Using oil or lotion as a lubricant, Swedish massage incorporates the following five strokes, all of which are done in the more superficial layers of the muscles and towards the heart.
Effleurage – Meaning touching lightly, effleurage comprises long gliding strokes from the neck to the base of the spine, or from the shoulder to the fingertips. Done with the entire hand or the pads of the the thumb, it helps relax the muscles while also enabling the therapist to examine the muscles.
Petrissage – Meaning kneading, petrissage involves the kneading, rolliing or squeezing of the muscles to encourage deeper circulation through the veins and lymph vessels. Thsi stroke is also believed to help clear toxins from the muscles.
Friction or rubbing – This consists of deep circular or transverse movements of the thumb pads or fingertips around the joints and other bony areas to break down adhesions or knots of muscle fibre which develop in response to muscular trauma or strain.
Tapotement or tapping – here the therapist taps the muscles with the edge of the hand (kind of like a karate chop movement) or closed fist to release tension and cramping and stimulate circulation. This invigorates the muscles before relaxing them.
Vibration or shaking – This is performed at the end of the massage when the therapist presses his hands on the back or limbs and rapidly shakes them for a few seconds. Helpful in releasing lower back pain.
Swedish massage is the basis of Ripples relaxation massage, although we do incorporate techniques from other massage styles such as Kahuna and Russian massage. For more information on Ripple call 0438 567 906 or visit us online at relaxation massage
