Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is one of the many most popular massage techniques available. It can also be known as an old-fashioned massage. The technique aims to promote relaxation through releasing muscle tension using smooth rubbing movements. Swedish massage is gentler than deeper tissue massage and much more suited for those looking for stress relief and comfort. It may be used by people of any age group from kids to adults.
Swedish massage developed in the 1800s when two therapists, Anna Skokowska and Carl Ekberg started practicing together. Afterwards, the two developed their own style of massage, known as"manneristic treatment". The two therapists combined their techniques to come up with a Swedish massage that's still popular today. In this technique, slow, smooth strokes are used to control the muscles as a way of relaxing and relieving tension from the body. There are many other massage methods that use the exact same principle to relax the individual but none of the techniques offers the type of deep penetration a Swedish massage provides.
When having a Swedish massage, it is essential that the therapist is skilled and well trained in this massage therapy. This is because classic massage techniques require the use of bigger gliding hands which aren't a part of Swedish massage. The therapist will need to be experienced in applying oils into the skin and working with sensitive areas, like the shoulders and neck. As the massage Techniques are different from traditional massage, it's important to choose a great therapist who specializes in Swedish massage.
Swedish massage uses a combination of gentle strokes, kneading, tapping and sliding. The soft touch of the Swedish massage helps relax the whole body while the gentle kneading and tapping stimulates the deeper layers of muscles. The sliding moves also help relieve tension in the muscles and release stress and knots. The two chief strokes used in Swedish massage are the effleurage and the tapotement. Effleurage uses long, sweeping strokes while tapotement uses light, quick, short taps on specific muscle areas. Swedish massage also incorporates a carrier oil which may be applied to the skin during the therapy session for extra benefit.
A few of the benefits of using Swedish massage include relaxation, reduced stress, improvement in blood flow, enhanced muscle flexibility and mobility, reduction of swelling and soreness and improved flow. The soothing Swedish massage offers immediate relief from muscle strain since the therapist works the muscles and connective tissues of the body. Swedish massage was used for years to help people sleep better and relax, and also helps relieve muscle spasms, cramps, joint stiffness and headaches.
Other therapeutic benefits of Swedish massage include enhanced blood circulation, lower blood pressure, decreased heart rate and stroke, decreased respiratory rate and increased oxygen consumption. Improved blood flow is helpful for the skin, as it stimulates collagen production. Additionally it is believed to help reduce inflammation and swelling. Swedish massage can also provide relief from allergies, asthma and other respiratory ailments. If you suffer from arthritis or osteoarthritis, a daily Swedish massage could help reduce the pain associated with these conditions.
You can find a deeper Swedish massage by performing the techniques at home. Begin by using your fingertips to feel around the exterior of your wrist. Then use your thumb and forefinger to lightly knead the muscles of your wrist. Keep applying pressure to the kneading motion until you feel a relaxation in your muscles. You might want to start with a little bit of pressure, as you don't want to overdo it.
If you find it hard to relax your entire body using the kneading technique, you can have your therapist employ massage oil directly to your back neck or head. Some therapists will indicate that you put your head in a neutral position to allow for a deeper comprehension of the techniques. A professional Swedish massage will normally take about 45 minutes. You can have the massage done on an outpatient basis if you're seeing the therapist for a medical issue or to get an infection. If you are visiting the therapist to obtain a Swedish massage to relieve your symptoms, they may only perform the techniques a couple of times weekly. If you would like to schedule regular Swedish massages, you may contact your regional massage therapist.