WHAT IS SWEDISH MASSAGE:
Swedish Massage uses the hands, forearms and elbows to manipulate the superficial layers of the muscles to improve mental, physical health and general wellbeing. It works by alternating both firm to light pressure incorporating long sweeping strokes, rhythmic tapping, vibrations and kneading.
Effleurage: gentle sliding or gliding techniques which help to increase circulation, warm the muscles and stimulate the nerves. This technique is used at the start of massage sessions to ease the athlete in gently.
Petrissage: a more intense form of massage involving kneading of the muscles to attain deeper and firmer movements, designed to stretch the muscles and ease tension.
Frictions: The palms of the hand sandwich the muscle areas and rubbed vigorously with each other, or they are rubbed onto the skin/muscle in order to produce heat by friction and relax the muscles. Often fairly painful as they are used to separate muscle fibres and break down scar tissue. This technique is only used for very short periods of time usually warming up for deeper tissue massage.
Vibrating: back and forth actions of the fingertips or the heel of the hand over the skin, causing shaking movements, which help loosen and relax clusters of muscle. The side of the hand can also be used.
Tapotement: Rhythmic Tapping movements using the fists, cupped hands or sides of the hand. This helps to loosen and relax the muscles and also helps to energize them.
Swedish massage is more than just a great way to treat yourself. The physical and mental health benefits of a Swedish massage make it a great option for those new to massage or someone looking for a complete massage experience. Swedish massage is a popular massage technique for relieving a range of disorders including sleeping, asthma, arthritis, carpal tunnel and headaches
Boost your flow of energy by adding aromatherapy to your Swedish massage.
BENEFITS OF SWEDISH MASSAGE
Swedish massage therapy goes beyond relaxation. Swedish massage is exceptionally beneficial for improving general health and wellbeing:
- increases the level of oxygen in the blood
- decreases muscle toxins
- improves circulation and muscle skin tone
- improves flexibility and joint stiffness
- improves sleep
- lowers blood pressure and
- reduces stress and anxiety, promoting body and mind relaxation
6 Key Reasons to perform Swedish Massage:
Pain management. If you have a condition like sciatica, rheumatoid or osteoarthritis and are suffering from chronic pain as a result, Swedish massage can be an effective method for managing that pain in a natural way. It is important to highlight your pain points, so your massage therapist can target those areas and use a stroking motion to improve local circulation and reduce muscle tension. The lymphatic areas can also be lightly massaged to help improve efficiency of body functions and blood flow. A great way to provide some comfort to those suffering from motor neuron disease.
Increased blood flow. Effleurage – a long, stroking motion in the direction of blood flow towards the heart – is used as a technique to help open up your blood vessels and increase your blood flow. Increased blood flow means that your muscles are getting more nutrients and oxygen and that your body is removing toxins more efficiently. Make sure you rehydrate after this treatment!
Rehabilitation for muscle injuries. Kneading and friction are best techniques to use to address any existing injuries, such as adhesions (which occur when muscle tissues fuse together). Many people say that this technique, relaxes layers of muscle and makes it feel as if the massage therapist is “working out the knots”
Increased flexibility. When your muscles are more relaxed, you’re able to experience a wider range of motion. A combination of Swedish massage and regular (passive or active) stretching (or a slight application of accupressure), is a great way for anyone to recover from sports-related injuries and get the most out of their periods of exercise.
Reduced stress. Swedish massages help maximize relaxation. The combination of the hands-on attention and the environment should relax you, lowering the level of the stress hormone cortisol in your body. Lowering your stress level offers a surprising number of additional benefits, including reducing or eliminating tension headaches, giving you more energy, and allowing you to get a better night’s sleep.
Improved immune system. One other great benefit of reducing your stress with a Swedish massage is that the lower cortisol levels allow your immune system to grow stronger, meaning that you’re less likely to get sick and can spend more time doing the things you enjoy.