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SWEDISH MASSAGE
was founded in the early 1800's by a fencing and gymnastics instructor named Per
Henrik Ling. Ling's extensive travels throughout Europe, Asia, and India
afforded him the opportunity to sample many disparate massage techniques from
which he borrowed to create his own unique, eclectic form of therapy. He
suffered from rheumatism in his arms and shoulders, and he found his new massage
procedures remedied this ailment. By the time of his death, Ling had attained
worldwide acclaim.
Traditional Swedish Massage
uses five main strokes, and many variations, to achieve its relaxing and healing
effects. Many therapists use a variety of techniques.
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Effleurage
consists of long, gliding strokes from the neck down to the base of the spine
or from the shoulder down to the fingertips. When done on the limbs, all
strokes are toward the heart to aid blood and lymphatic flow. It is done with
the whole hand or the thumb pads. Effleurage is designed to acquaint the
therapist with his or her subject’s body and vice versa.
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Petrissage
involves gently
lifting muscles up and away from the bones, then rolling and squeezing them,
again with a gentle pressure. It generally involves kneading and compression
motions - rolling, squeezing, or pressing the muscles to enhance deeper
circulation. Petrissage attempts to increase circulation with clearing out
toxins from muscle and nerve tissue.
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Friction
is the most penetrating of the strokes, and consists of deep circular or
transverse movements made with the thumb pads or fingertips. The therapist
applies deep, circular movement near joints and other bony areas (such as the
sides of the spine). Friction breaks down adhesions, which are knots that
result when muscle fibers bind together during the healing process, thus
contributing to more flexible muscles and joints.
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Tapotement
consists of a series of briskly applied percussive movements, using the hands
alternately to strike or tap the muscles for an invigorating effect. There are
many variations on this stroke. It may be applied with the edge of the hand,
with the tips of the fingers, or with a closed fist. Tapotement attempts to
release tension and cramping from muscles in spasm.
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Vibration, or Shaking,
involves the therapist pressing his or her hands on the back or limbs, and
rapidly shaking for a few seconds. It boosts circulation and increase the
power of the muscles to contact. Vibration is particularly helpful to people
suffering from low-back pain.
25 Reasons to receive a
massage by Judy...
1. Deep relaxation and stress reduction
2. Relief of muscle tension and stiffness
3. Reduced muscle spasm and tension
4. Greater joint flexibility and range of motion
5. Increased ease and efficiency of movement
6. Promotes deeper and easier breathing
7. Better circulation of both blood and lymph
fluids
8. Reduced blood pressure
9. Healthier, better nourished skin
10. Improved posture
11. Faster healing time from pulled muscles and
strained ligaments
12. Reduced spasm, pain and swelling
13. Reduced formation of scar tissue
14. Strengthened immune system and disease
prevention
15. Relaxed state of alertness
16. Reduced mental stress; a calmer mind
17. Greater ability to monitor stress signals and
respond appropriately
18. Increased capacity for clearer thinking
19. Satisfying the need for caring and nurturing
touch
20. Feeling of well being
21. Greater ease of emotional expression
22. Enhanced self-image
23. Reduced level of anxiety
24. Increased awareness of the mind-body
connection
25. A sense of being unified and in harmony
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